Examining Motivational Factors Influencing English Language Learning Among Iranian University Students: The Role of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation
Keywords:
Integrator, Instrumental motivation, Learning a foreign language, English languageAbstract
Motivation is recognized as a critical and decisive factor in the successful acquisition of a foreign language, particularly English, which holds substantial importance in today’s globalized world. Motivation serves as a driving force that encourages learners to actively engage in the process of language learning and to persist in their efforts. This study investigates the motivational factors that influence English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning among Iranian university students. The primary objective of the research is to identify intrinsic (integrative) and extrinsic (instrumental) motivations in the English language learning process and to analyze the differences based on gender and academic discipline. The research design is quantitative and descriptive in nature. Data were collected through an online questionnaire adapted from Sugimoto et al. (2006) and completed by 383 Iranian students. The findings indicated that Iranian students possess both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations; however, intrinsic motivation was more prominent than extrinsic motivation. A significant difference was observed between male and female students regarding their language learning motivation, particularly in terms of intrinsic motivation, which was significantly higher among female students. Moreover, the results showed that academic discipline did not have a statistically significant impact on students’ motivation for learning English, as motivation levels were relatively consistent across different fields of study.
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