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chinesearmy · Joined: 08 Apr 2010 Posts: 394 Location: canada

Has anyone here asked your students what is their motivation to learn English?

7969 · Joined: 26 Mar 2003 Posts: 5782 Location: Coastal Guangdong

rogerwilco · Joined: 10 Jun 2010 Posts: 1549

daCabbie · Joined: 02 Sep 2007 Posts: 244

Reason is often directly linked to student initiative/motivation:

wants to travel: dreamers/well motivated
wants to teach: semi-motivated (tries to be the teachers pet)
wants better job: motivated but misdirected (learn to use a computer)
parents decision: ok, wants to please but not true
schools decision: worst student ever
wants to join NBA: be happy if you teach this child three words

The lowest student would be the one that just smiles when you ask the question.

Lobster · Posted: Wed May 04, 2011 5:12 am Post subject:

Which students? In which schools? Kids enrolled in after-school programs are at their parents' bidding. From primary to senior high it's part of the curriculum; the motivation is high marks. Uni students may have it as a requisite course as well. Some workers are required to attend English classes by management. In my experience, personal motivation only exists in these groups:

Students hoping to attend schools in western countries;
Students who have an inherent interest in language and culture;
Students working for or hoping to work for foreign companies;
Students hoping to emmigrate to western countries.

Am I missing anyone here?

I'd have to say that the motivation is mostly extrinsic rather than intrinsic. Because of this, it's very important to make lessons enjoyable and engaging.

RED