Foreign Language Learning Motivation in a U.S. Military Academy: A Comparative Case Study on the Effects from the Learning Environment

Autor/inn/en	Miller, Zachary F.; Crowther, Dustin
Titel	Foreign Language Learning Motivation in a U.S. Military Academy: A Comparative Case Study on the Effects from the Learning Environment
Quelle	In: Applied Language Learning, 30 (2020) 1-2, S.41-59 (19 Seiten) PDF als Volltext Verfügbarkeit
Sprache	englisch
Dokumenttyp	gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz
ISSN	1041-679X
Schlagwörter	Second Language Learning; Second Language Instruction; Self Concept; Learning Motivation; Case Studies; Portuguese; Military Personnel; Armed Forces; Military Training; Language Teachers; Communicative Competence (Languages); Comparative Analysis; Undergraduate Students; Language Proficiency; New York + Suchen Sie Ihr Suchwort? Zweitsprachenerwerb; Fremdsprachenunterricht; Selbstkonzept; Motivation for studies; Lernmotivation; Case study; Fallstudie; Case Study; Portugiesischunterricht; Military; Militär; Militärausbildung; Language teacher; Sprachunterricht; Communicative competence; Languages; Kommunikative Kompetenz; Sprache; Language skill; Language skills; Sprachkompetenz
Abstract	Using a case study design, we compared two prior-service cadets learning Portuguese at a United States (U.S.) military academy on how they dealt with aspects of foreign language learning (FLL). In particular, we explored how three specific components contributed to the formation of the cadets' second language (L2) motivational selves. These were (a) the learner (with unique military experiences); (b) the learning environment (the military academy); (c) and the learning task (communicative competency). Findings indicated that cadets constructed ideal L2 selves in accordance with their prospective (and imagined) uses of Portuguese, albeit for different purposes (military versus non-military). The divergence in potential foreign language application was manifested primarily within the context of the learning environment. This study informs L2 instructors of the complex, multiple facets that can contribute to foreign language motivational development. We note that instructors may find it useful to help guide students' L2 ideal selves in order to maximize motivation and enhance overall FLL efforts. (As Provided).
Anmerkungen	Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center. Academic Journals, 1759 Lewis Road Suite 142, Presidio of Monterey, Monterey, CA 93944-5006. Tel: 831-242-5638; Fax: 831-242-5850; e-mail: aj@pom-emh1.army.mil; Website: http://www.dliflc.edu/#homepage-
Erfasst von	ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC
Update	2024/1/01