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Focusing on how a world of possibilities is opened up by language learners themselves, imagination has been regarded as an elusive but indispensable element in second language (L2) education. Drawing on notions of international posture (Yashima 2002), Ideal L2 Self (Dörnyei 2009), and imagined communities (Norton 2001), we theorised imagination from a psychological perspective and a sociocultural lens. Then we conducted a mixed-method investigation to examine the complex relationship between imagination and informal digital learning of English (IDLE). A total of 401 participants from a tier-one university in China answered the survey, and 15 participated in post-survey interviews. Quantitative data revealed that students' international posture could positively influence their IDLE practices. The Ideal L2 Self could both contribute to IDLE and partially mediate the relationship between international posture and IDLE. Adding nuances to quantitative results, the analysis of the interview data highlighted three major themes––imagining possible selves, negotiating access, and investing in IDLE. These themes helped to make sense of the intricate ways in which EFL learners invest in IDLE trajectories by utilising the power of imagination to negotiate their desired memberships in imagined international communities. This study concludes with pedagogical implications and suggestions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Dörnyei's L2 motivational self‐system (L2MSS) is a dominant theory within the field of language motivation research. In this study, we explore the interrelationship between the three central components of L2MSS, with a particular focus on the often‐overlooked L2 learning experience (L2LE). While previous research has primarily examined the Ideal L2 Self and Ought‐to L2 Self in relation to various factors, this paper explores the impact of the L2LE on these two motivational constructs. We collected and analyzed data from 238 surveys administered online to Japanese university students using structural equation modeling. The results indicate that the L2LE has a causal pathway toward both the Ideal L2 Self and Ought‐to L2 Self, characterized by a moderate to strong degree of influence. Furthermore, there exists a moderate to strong causal relationship between the Ideal L2 Self and the Ought‐to L2 Self. The results of this study should have clear implications for educators and researchers, as it shows the importance of the L2LE and should encourage further research into this still underexplored construct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although motivational variables have been extensively examined in the context of English as a second/foreign language (ESL/EFL), they have received little attention when learning Chinese as a second language (CSL), especially among elementary school students in lower grades. Considering the significant impact of psychological variables on language learning and the dilemma of Chinese reading for non-Chinese speaking (NCS) students from Hong Kong, this study examined the structural relationship between the ideal L2 self and intrinsic motivation, as well as their impacts on the learning engagement and reading performance of 475 Hong Kong first-grade NCS students. Two findings were noteworthy: (1) under the simultaneous consideration of the above-mentioned variables, intrinsic motivation affects learning engagement and Chinese reading performance more than the ideal self; (2) the indirect effects of intrinsic motivation on reading performance through learning engagement are more significant than its direct effect on reading performance. The implications of the findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perseverance of effort is essential for success in learning a second language (L2). While past research has examined how motivational beliefs (e.g., growth mindset) influence L2 learners' perseverance, their generalizability and underlying motivational mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the relationship between growth language mindsets and perseverance of efforts in L2 learning, as well as whether this relationship can be explained by the ideal L2 self and ought‐to L2 self. A cohort of 740 EFL students from four universities in China completed a questionnaire. The results revealed that EFL learners with higher levels of growth language mindsets showed greater levels of perseverance in language learning. Furthermore, mediation analysis indicated that growth language mindsets indirectly predicted perseverance through both the ideal L2 self and the ought‐to L2 self. These results suggested that the motivational mechanisms associated with growth language mindsets are complex, involving both ideal and ought‐to images of the L2 self, which in turn could contribute to sustaining perseverance in L2 learning. Theoretical and practical implications for researchers and language teachers are discussed in light of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given much importance associated with willingness to communicate (WTC) in foreign language learning, many researchers have carried out studies to explore antecedents of second language (L2) WTC. To contribute to this research domain, this study sought to test a model of ideal L2 self, growth language mindset, boredom and WTC among English major students. In so doing, we recruited a total number of 437 undergraduate English major students from different universities in Iran, who were requested to complete an online survey containing the questionnaires of these four variables. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to confirm the construct validity of the questionnaires. In addition, structural equation modelling was performed to test the hypothesised structural relations among the variables. Results showed that ideal L2 self and boredom significantly influenced (English as a Foreign Language) EFL students' WTC directly. Nevertheless, the growth language mindset influenced WTC indirectly, through the mediation of boredom. The findings suggest notable implications for teaching and learning EFL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The impact of digital gamified language learning on language achievement has been corroborated in the literature; however, its impact on language achievement, especially in the English as a foreign language (EFL) context needs further investigation. In addition, the related literature has not sufficiently confirmed the impact of digital gamified language learning on some psychological domains of EFL learning. Objectives: This study, therefore, employed a sequential explanatory mixed‐methods approach to explore the effects of digital gamified language learning using a mobile application (app) affordances on EFL learners' language achievement, foreign language enjoyment (FLE), and ideal second language (L2) self. Methods: To this end, 36 EFL learners were randomly divided into two groups; one group was randomly assigned to the digital class, including 19 EFL learners, and the other group was assigned to the non‐digital class, consisting of 17 EFL learners. The digital learners did the digital gamified language learning activities individually and interactively and received peer and instructor feedback, whilst the non‐digital learners did the same language learning activities in printed format and received peer and instructor feedback. A language achievement test, the FLE scale, and the ideal L2 self‐scale were used to collect the quantitative data and an individual semi‐structured interview was carried out to gather the qualitative data. Results and Conclusions: One‐way ANCOVA, used to analyse the quantitative data, revealed that the digital and non‐digital classes improved the EFL learners' language achievement, FLE, and ideal L2 self; however, the digital learners outperformed their non‐digital counterparts in all the measures. Thematic analysis, utilised to analyse the qualitative data, uncovered some themes about the digital learners' positive and negative attitudes and perceptions towards the digital gamified language learning activities, clarifying the quantitative findings. Implications: Pedagogical implications are discussed. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: Digital gamification involves employing game‐supported activities to interact with other learners, improving their language learning.Several studies have been carried out focusing on the salient role of digital gamified language learning activities in improving learners' language learning.As elements of positive psychology, foreign language enjoyment and ideal L2 self can improve learners' enthusiasm and involvement in digital gamified language learning activities. What this paper adds: Digital gamification using a mobile app's gamified affordances develops English language learners' language achievement, foreign language enjoyment, and ideal L2 self.Digital gamification is more effective than non‐digital gamification in improving English language learners' language achievement, foreign language enjoyment and ideal L2 self.English language learners in digital classes hold positive attitudes and perceptions towards the effects of digital gamification on their language learning. Pedagogical implications: Digital gamified language learning activities can be an effective and engaging supplement to non‐digital classroom teaching, especially in English language contexts where learners may have limited opportunities for authentic language learning collaboration.English language learners can utilise digital gamified language learning affordances for language development, particularly for their collaborative language learning activities with other classmates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been considerable academic interest in the positive emotions of language learners. As a contribution to this field, the aims of this study were to identify foreign language pleasure (FLE) patterns and their relations with language learning motivation. A total of 145 Korean university students joined the study and their responses to surveys related to the FLE and L2 future selves were analyzed. It was found, first, that there were three underlying FLE factors named Teacher-facilitator enjoyment, Private-internalized enjoyment, and Social enjoyment. Second, these factors were mostly correlated with L2 future selves. It also indicated that ought-to L2 self and the first and third FLE factors were not related to self-perceived proficiency, unlike ideal L2 self and the second FLE factor, that is, Private-internalized enjoyment. Lastly, the result of mediation analysis suggested that private-internalized enjoyment serves as a mediator in the way ideal L2 self affected self-perceived proficiency. The implications based on the findings were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines Vietnamese students' motivation for learning Mandarin Chinese during their study abroad in Taiwan and their construction of self in relation to this language learning motivation. A combination of several concepts of ideal L2 self, ought-to L2 self, instrumental motive, integrative motive, linguistic capital, and multiple self-aspects is used as a theoretical lens to gain insights into the students' Chinese learning motivation. The study employs a qualitative research approach in which semi-structured interviews with English-medium students from five Taiwanese universities were conducted. Findings reveal that the students' motivation for learning Chinese contributed to portraying their ideal and ought-to Chinese selves, which subsume their different instrumental and integrative motives for language learning. The ideal Chinese self they would like to become possesses Chinese linguistic capital, which would confer on them advantages pertaining to their study, career development and social relations. The students' ideal Chinese self also incorporates and reinforces their (desired) cultural, economic and social selves. Implications for supporting international students' motivation for out-of-class language learning and their construction of self at the institutional level are then discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role that individual difference factors play in pragmatic learning behavior has received increasing attention in second-language (L2) pragmatics. However, there is a dearth of studies exploring the relationship between learners' motivational variables and their pragmatic production. To address this gap, the present study aims to examine a model of the ideal L2 self, self-efficacy, willingness to communicate (WTC), and pragmatic production among English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) learners. The study also seeks to explore the mediating role of WTC within this structural model. For this purpose, a total of 427 undergraduate students at a public university in China were recruited for an online survey. The structural validity of the questionnaires was established using a confirmatory-factor analysis, while the hypothesized structural relations between the variables were tested through structural-equation modeling. The results demonstrated that self-efficacy and WTC significantly and directly predicated pragmatic production. Nevertheless, the ideal L2 self influenced pragmatic production indirectly, through the mediation of WTC. The study concludes by providing implications for teaching and by offering suggestions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the relationship between the L2 Motivational Self System—namely, the ideal L2 self and the ought-to L2 self—and L2 Willingness to Communicate (L2 WTC) in the classroom (a typical place for English communication among EFL learners) and in the extramural digital setting (an emerging English communication channel increasingly used by young EFL learners). To this end, 417 Chinese EFL middle school students (ages 12 to 14) participated in the study. After controlling for demographic factors hierarchical multiple regression results showed that the ideal L2 self significantly predicted L2 WTC both in the classroom and in an extramural digital setting. Interview data (n = 4) also elaborated that students attempted to lessen the discrepancy between their current L2 self (e.g., EFL learners) and ideal L2 self-images (e.g., discussing the professional National Basketball Association in an American radio program) by becoming more willing to communicate in both communication environments. In addition to new research directions, these results offer pedagogical implications that the ideal L2 self can facilitate L2 communication orientation in in-class and out-of-class digital environments, both of which are typically venues for L2 communication among today's young EFL learners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Directed Motivational Currents (DMCs) can be described as intense surges in motivation which can carry second language (L2) learners towards achieving their L2 related goals. DMCs are triggered by powerful stimuli which can be diverse in nature, and they depend on various conditions. DMCs are characterized by several key features, including goal-orientedness, a salient facilitative structure, and positive emotionality. Individuals experiencing DMCs are highly focused on a clearly defined goal accompanied by a vision of an idealized future self that has reached the goal. This vision is supported by a new set of automatized behavioural routines, subgoals, and affirmative feedback. Furthermore, individuals experience positive emotions while engaged in pursuit of their L2 goal, regardless of the type of activity or task in question. The aim of this study was to describe DMCs among English L2 university students based on an analysis of interview data. The findings indicated that Croatian university students displayed the key features of DMCs, which were launched due to various triggering stimuli, the most common of which were intrapersonal reasons. L2 goals were mainly related to a future career in the teaching profession, while visions of their ideal L2 self were tied to becoming proficient English language speakers, but also to personal development. Most students used automatized behavioural routines which aided in attaining their goals. The results also suggested that negative feedback did not have a detrimental effect on students' motivation. Moreover, students' DMCs were associated with positive emotionality, through the satisfaction gained by goal attainment which reciprocally affected their self-confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on an empirical investigation into the effects of three motivational interventions on Chinese junior secondary EFL students' L2 motivational self system (L2MSS: ideal L2 self, ought-to L2 self, and L2 learning experience). The study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-post-delayed questionnaire surveys involving four groups: a control group without motivational training, and three treatment groups receiving either traditional motivational strategies (MSs), vision-based MSs, or a combination of both types of MS. The selection of MSs for the interventions was based on student preferences identified in a pilot study. A total of 391 students completed a questionnaire administered at three time points to gauge changes to their L2MSS. Within-group comparisons indicated that all three motivational treatments significantly improved participants' L2MSS immediately after the interventions. All three interventions demonstrated sustained effects on the ideal L2 self and the ought-to L2 self, whereas only the combined MS treatment had a lasting impact on the L2 learning experience. Between-groups comparisons revealed that the ideal L2 self was most influenced by vision-based MSs, followed by combined MSs and traditional MSs. The combined MS treatment outperformed the other two treatments in the effects on the ought-to L2 self and the L2 learning experience. The implications and limitations of the study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research examined the three constructs of Second Language Motivational Self System (L2MSS) and Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE) as predictors of Motivated Behavior (MB) based on the participants (N = 335) of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners in a Chinese education context. The exploratory factor analysis has been conducted to reveal the two components of Second Language Learning Experience (L2LE). By closer scrutiny of the theoretical model, we have found Ideal Second Language Self (Ideal L2 self), Emotional Engagement L2 Learning Experience (EEL2LE), Behavior Engagement L2 Learning Experience (BEL2LE), FLE as significant direct predictors of motivated behavior. Additionally, we also found that the Ideal L2 self can predict the motivated behavior mediated by EEL2LE and BEL2LE, and that EEL2LE can predict motivated behavior through FLE. Also, ought-to L2 self has been found to significantly predict motivated behavior mediated by BEL2LE. The results extended the scope of the L2MSS by integrating FLE and supplied suggestions for foreign language instruction based on the socio-educational context of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence from recent studies has shown that sustained perseverance and passion for long-term goals in the domain of second language (L2) learning – a personality trait called L2 grit – is associated with various aspects of language learning, including positive psychological attributes (e.g. motivation, beliefs, and emotions), actions (e.g. learning efforts and strategy use), and achievement (e.g. course and task performance). Meanwhile, relatively little has been written about the mechanism through which such relationships emerge. Expanding upon L2 grit’s association with self-regulated learning (SRL) behaviors and SRL-related psychological variables, this study explores the development of L2 grit and its role in language achievement using the SRL framework. One hundred and eight English majors in Japan responded to a questionnaire, granted permission to access their L2 class records, and completed a standardized L2 test. The main findings include: (1) the psychological attributes that facilitate SRL may play a critical role in increasing levels of L2 grit, (2) the relationship between L2 grit and achievement in language classes was mediated by behavioral self-regulation (intensified learning efforts), and (3) L2 grit may promote different types of self-regulatory behaviors depending on learners’ status (i.e. learning experience and proficiency levels) and learning situations (e.g. learning content and goals). The results provide one explanation for the superior performance of gritty learners in L2 classes observed in previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the L2 Motivational Self System (L2MSS) has been extensively investigated among learners of English, this study explores through a crosslinguistic lens its applicability to learners of a language other than English (LOTE), in this case French. Quantitative survey analysis among 522 university learners of French and English in two European countries (Sweden and Poland) suggests that while the framework is relevant in the case of learners of French, other motivation constructs are also at play. The L2MSS supposedly subsumes various traditional motivational constructs (e.g. integrative orientation, instrumental orientation), yet there is evidence to suggest that these were perceived as distinct constructs in their own right, especially by the learners of French. Even a strong form of integrative orientation was found to play an active role among the learners of French who had spent time in a francophone country and had learnt the language for longer. As such, the article argues for a more comprehensive approach to second language (L2) motivation theory that is also sensitive to factors at play in the specific case of LOTEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Future second language (L2) self-images have proven integral to L2 motivation, prompting several attempts to purposefully develop learners' ideal L2 selves over the past decade through the use of vision-building techniques. Some of these 'vision interventions' have reported successfully enhancing learners' L2 self-images and motivation; other studies, however, diverge from an unqualified success narrative, citing for example a lack of increase in learner effort despite stronger future vision. Data collection has also been typically restricted to the period of the intervention itself, and so insight into the long-term take-up of the introduced techniques, or how potential outcomes develop over time, remains limited. To gain further understanding into such issues, we have charted the evolving nature of the L2 vision intervention over the past decade, and complemented the learning from previous studies by conducting a five-week vision-building course with 25 learners of English for academic purposes (EAP) in the UK university-pathway system. Interview data gathered over the course of 10 months – the longest investigation of vision-building we are aware of – demonstrated fluctuating engagement with visualization, and accordingly, our analysis looks critically at the notion of self-image-centred intervention in instructed second language acquisition (SLA). While we believe that L2 vision can indeed be consciously enhanced, we argue that success depends largely on how general principles are adapted to specific learning contexts. The discussion highlights challenges that instructors may encounter in staging such interventions, and offers practical lessons for using self-images in the classroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study leverages positive psychology (PP) to explore the reciprocal relationships among foreign language enjoyment (FLE), ideal L2 self, and grit in English major learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). It further examines the potential for growth mindset to predict these constructs over time. Employing a cross-lagged panel design, the research investigates these relationships among 903 EFL learners in Iran, assessed at two time points. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is utilized to analyse the hypothesized reciprocal and predictive effects. The findings reveal a significant lagged effect of ideal L2 self on both FLE and grit, suggesting that a stronger ideal L2 self at the initial assessment predicts higher levels of FLE and grit at the subsequent time point. Additionally, growth mindset exhibits a significant influence on all three constructs, but only at the first assessment point. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the motivational dynamics underlying EFL learning success and highlight the potential benefits of fostering a growth mindset and a strong ideal L2 self among learners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of positive psychology to the SLA domain triggered a bulk of research on how learners can thrive and flourish in the language classroom emphasizing the role that character strengths play in the achievement of goals. In this study, we examined character strengths in the context of second language (L2) learning and their role in a critical goal of L2 learning - the Willingness to Communicate (WTC) in the target language. Specifically, we examined the impact of L2 grit, Ideal L2 Self (ILS), and growth language mindset (growth LM) as complex direct and indirect predictors of WTC. Data was collected from 450 Iranian EFL learners with diverse language proficiencies. The predictor of L2 grit, the possible mediators of ILS and Growth LM, and the outcome variable of WTC were modeled in a double latent mediation model. Results indicated that ILS and growth LM fully mediated the relationship between L2 grit and WTC. As such, the study highlighted the role of personal strengths such as grittiness, self-motivation, and a growth LM in the L2 learning context. Finally, future research avenues are suggested based on the findings of this study. • Ideal L2 Self (ILS) and growth language mindset (LM) fully mediated the relationship between L2 grit and willingness to communicate (WTC). • ILS was the stronger mediator explaining the relative priority of having a positive picture of oneself using English. • This study supported character strengths (L2 grit, growth LM, and ILS) as individual predictors of WTC. • Personal strengths such as grittiness, self-motivation, and a growth LM play a key role in the L2 learning context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Directed motivational currents (DMCs) is a novel construct investigated by motivation researchers. Earlier studies on DMCs have focused on explaining its unique nature while the individual difference (ID) factors impacting upon its power and long-term sustainment has been under-researched. The aim of this research study was to reveal the structural interactions among DMC dispositions, self-regulated strategy use, language learning effort, ideal L2 self and imagination capacity/vision of tertiary level EFL learners in Turkish higher education context. The study was conducted with 305 participants and it employed a quantitative research design. Data were collected using a composite survey instrument. Findings showed that imagination capacity, ideal L2 self, language learning effort, and self-regulated strategy use had direct or indirect effect on DMC experience. It is probable, therefore, that these ID factors could help explain long-term existence of DMCs depending on the strength of their predictive power. On the basis of these findings, providing learners with vision-setting and vision-sustaining activities, encouraging them to put effort into the learning process and teaching them how to self-regulate via some external interventions were proposed to enhance the strength and sustainment of this unique experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there has been a surge of publication on L2 motivation studies, not much has been investigated regarding motivation to learn languages other than English. As a longitudinal interview study, the present study investigated two cases of Japanese university students focusing on the development of ideal L2/L3 self and ideal multilingual self. The results indicated that the development of ideal L2/L3 self was closely related to that of ideal professional self, and an elaborate ideal L2/L3 self helped learners persist and achieve high competence in the target languages. Furthermore, reading skills were considered especially important among the interviewees, which was not emphasised in contexts where learners have daily contact with the target languages. One of the interviewees was not negatively impacted by English and becoming multilingual, which seemed to be helped by a range of factors including ideal L2/L3 self, strong intrinsic motivation, and rich life experiences. The case demonstrated the possibility of developing an ideal multilingual self and becoming multilingual even in an era when English functions as a global language. Based on the results, theoretical and pedagogical implications that might be particularly helpful in foreign language contexts are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theoretical basis of this paper is the heuristic L2 Motivational Self System (L2MSS). The research aims to determine the degree to which the ideal L2 self can be regarded as a significant factor with regards to its power to make a difference in students' actual motivated behaviour in L2 communication. The research sample consists of 396 students. The ideal L2 self is a predictor variable. Willingness to communicate and the obtained grades are criterion variables. Gender, period of time spent learning English / German, and whether students are residing in the country where the target language is spoken are all moderator variables. Systematic non-experimental observation method based on Dörnyei and Taguchi's survey was used in this study. Cronbach's alpha indicated high reliability in the presented sample (.92). Willingness to communicate was investigated using McCroskey's questionnaire. The findings indicate a rather complex picture of the observed L2 MSS constructs and the importance of their components in the field of L2 learning. Therefore, for further research, it is suggested that the ideal L2 self should be divided into two constructs: obligations that the individual would like to comply with and obligations that others expect him/her to comply with. The contribution of the L2 learning experience should also be considered because otherwise, it is difficult to determine the progress of the model design and what to do with it in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Socio-economic status (SES) has been consistently shown to influence students' educational achievement, but to date, few studies have investigated the role of SES in language learning motivation. This study aims to examine to what extent two indicators of SES, school location and parents' education, affect motivation of Polish 15-year-olds to study English. The questionnaire, completed by 599 participants, was based on Motivational Systems Theory [Ford, M. 1992. Motivating humans: goals, emotions, and personal agency beliefs. London: Sage Publications.] The results indicate that both school location and parents' education affect language learning motivation. Students from rural schools and those whose parents have a lower level of education tended to be less motivated than their peers from cities and those whose parents have higher levels of education. The differences concerned the goals the students adopted, their personal agency beliefs, emotional arousal processes, ideal L2 selves and self-regulation. This study highlights the need to raise teachers' awareness of the issue. From the methodological perspective, it stresses the necessity to ensure sample representativeness in terms of students' SES when conducting research on affective factors in language learning and calls for more research involving participants from lower SES backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research examined the effects of instrumentality‐promotion and attitudes to culture and community on ideal L2 self in two educational contexts in Iran, an expanding circle country where English has not played an official or institutional role. The data obtained from 833 learners in high schools and universities was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) and multi‐group structural equation modelling (MSEM). The results show instrumentality‐promotion is more strongly linked with ideal L2 self and there is not a statistically significant difference in the positive effect of instrumentality‐promotion and attitudes to culture and community on learners' ideal L2 self according to the group. The findings illustrate the way in which English learners in this context develop identities needed for constructive interaction in a multicultural world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study had two objectives: (a) to quantitatively investigate whether Japanese language learners of English have inclusive second language (L2) self-related motivations, and how inclusive L2 self-related motivations contribute to English learning effort and self-rated English ability, and (b) to qualitatively examine how Japanese learners of English incorporate parental expectations and values about English into their L2 self during each stage of their English learning experience, and how higher and lower English proficiency learners incorporate parental values and opinions into their L2 self. We found that an inclusive L2 self-related motivation explained the interaction between social/contextual factors and English learning effort or self-rated English ability. A gap was observed between higher and lower English proficiency groups regarding the degree of incorporating parental expectations, values, and feelings about English into their sense of L2 self. Having an inclusive L2 self successfully introduces different viewpoints into current self-related motivational frameworks within language learning contexts, which to date have only emphasised individual levels of self perspectives to the exclusion of inclusive self figures derived from social surroundings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In researching second language (L2) learners' motivation, the traditional Gardnerian concept of integrativeness was readily applicable in a world where discrete L2 communities were often clearly identifiable. However, the growing dominance of global English has rendered this construct less relevant for the ever-increasing numbers of L2-English learners for whom there is no geographically-defined L2 community with which to integrate. This transformation of the language learning landscape has seen integrativeness reinterpreted as a concept more aligned with individuals' self-identification and future visions as L2 users. The demand for English teachers worldwide has led to large numbers of first-language English speakers finding such work outside their own countries, but their motivation to learn the languages of their host nations remains unexplored. Based on interviews with 14 English as Foreign Language (EFL) instructors in South Korea, the present study found that most lacked the clear future L2 self visions required to drive motivation. In such cases, the traditional concept of integrativeness also retains its explanatory value, particularly as participants tended to attribute their lack of motivation to elements of the broader society in which they were living. These findings have implications for research on similar cohorts operating in a globalized marketplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gender differences in language learning motivation have not been extensively examined. Thus, this survey study explores gender differences in the population of 599 Polish learners of English aged 14–16. Unlike other studies, it not only compares means but investigates whether there are gender differences in the way the variables interact with each other. Findings show that females scored higher than males on scales of international orientation, ideal L2 self and self‐regulation. No gender differences were observed on instrumentality, self‐efficacy beliefs, English self‐concept and intrinsic motivation. There is also a significant difference in the strength of links between self‐regulation and instrumentality, self‐efficacy beliefs as well as English self‐concept. Thus, gender effects appear more extensive than previous research has shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This research investigates the study abroad experiences of eight Japanese university students through a longitudinal study of changes in the second language (L2) self. Semi-structured interviews and photo narrative journals were used to explore short-term and long-term changes in the participants' L2 motivational self systems and the effects of these changes on motivation, study goals and learning behaviours. Three distinct patterns emerged, each of which appeared to have a significant influence on motivation and study behaviours in the short and long-term. For the first group, positive L2 experiences made much clearer the discrepancies between current and desired states, creating an empowering sense of moving closer to the ideal L2 self. For the second group, individuals' self images became characterised by both an ideal self and a complementary ought-to self. The third group comprised those participants who described a feared self which they linked to their perceived inability to engage with the target language community in ways that they had hoped. Overall, our findings demonstrate the power of short-term study abroad to provide an opportunity for individuals to experience possible futures, with sustained effects on the clarity and availability of their future self visions and motivated language learning behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses Ryan's Motivational Factors Questionnaire (MFQ) as a data collection tool to explore the motivational factors which distinguish groups of Korean university language learners based on English proficiency and degree of multilingualism. The data were analysed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA). The results of the EFA highlighted both similarities and differences to the constructs underlying the MFQ according to Ryan. For example, the EFA of the current study showed Ryan's construct of ‘ideal L2 self’ splitting into two distinct factors: ‘ideal L2 self - English for general future dreams’ and ‘ideal L2 self - cognitively activated imagery'. Ryan's ‘instrumentality’ construct also split into two factors. These splits highlight the need for more research to understand the sub-constructs that might occur in the psychological constructs of self. Using the results from the EFA, a MANOVA and subsequent DFA highlighted a range of factors relating to anxiety, cultural interest, attitudes towards English and the influence of the USA, which predicted group membership based on L2 English proficiency. Group membership based on multilingual status (i.e. intermediate or higher level knowledge of L2 English plus at least another second language) was predicted by factors relating to interest in foreign languages and public self-confidence in English. These results underscore the importance of examining participants’ background information (language proficiency and multilingual status) in conjunction with exploring motivational and related variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second language (L2) learning is widely acknowledged as complex due to variables such as learner, context, and target language. Such variables are particularly relevant to the learning of immigrant or indigenous languages in countries such as Canada, the United States, and New Zealand. The motivational roles of such variables are considered through a study of intergroup learner difference in 700 New Zealand university learners of foreign languages (FLs) and Māori. Learner groups were distinguished by target language and by whether they were heritage language (HL) learners of their L2. Groups differed on several L2 motivational self system (L2MSS) variables. Significant differences existed between learners of Māori and learners of FLs, and between HL and non-HL learners. Findings also indicated that the roles of target language and HL learner status were intertwined with regard to their impact on L2MSS variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores adolescent students' attitudes toward learning English and other European languages studied at secondary school. The study is based on 2255 qualitative responses to a survey conducted in Bulgaria, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. The data reveal that, although differences between countries shape the experience of foreign language learning in different ways, students in all four countries are highly aware of the global status of English. This can be a positive stimulus for students' attitudes toward English but it can also negatively affect their attitudes toward learning other languages, as these can be perceived as less valuable. While perceived societal importance can differ from personal relevance and while identity issues, ability beliefs, contextual factors on the school and classroom level, as well as social-relational contexts (especially the relationship to the teacher) also play a role in shaping students' attitudes, the data demonstrate that macro-contextual factors exert considerable influence. They also suggest that more attention must be paid to stimulating positive attitudes toward language diversity and to fostering plurilingual aspirations in young Europeans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the role of different theories when considered together in a foreign language other than English (LOTE) context. Specifically, the study examines (a) to what extent influential second language (L2) motivational theories, when integrated, explain motivation to learn LOTEs, and (b) how the powerful status of English in Japan affects learners' self- and identity-related motivation to learn LOTEs. Survey responses of 250 Japanese learners, who simultaneously learned a foreign LOTE and English as a required language, were analyzed using a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The results offer insight into how various coexisting social factors are connected to learners' multiple self- and identity-related orientations, which in turn predict several varied academic consequences (e.g., effort, attitude, and L2 ability). We also confirmed positive and negative interplay of English- and LOTE-related orientations such that the self- and identity-related orientations of the languages will play a competing role (e.g., Csizér & Lukács, 2010). This finding highlights the importance of taking sociopolitical perspectives into consideration in a context where learners learn two languages and one has a specific political presence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theoretical paradigms of second language (L2) learning motivation developed over the past 25 years have been largely based on the study of English as a target language, which raises the question as to whether they are equally applicable to the understanding of the motivation to learn languages other than English (LOTEs). It is suggested in this article that current conceptualizations of L2 motivation display certain subtle characteristics that may not do full justice to the understanding of the motivation underlying LOTEs, either by downplaying certain important features or by providing an insufficiently nuanced representation of areas where the motivation to learn English and LOTEs diverges. The discussion addresses five such aspects: (a) the confounding interaction of English- and LOTE-related self-images, (b) the individualistic focus of the ideal L2 self, (c) the different nature/role of the ought-to self associated with languages with substantial versus marginal social support, (d) the different nature of goals in the learning of English and LOTEs, and (e) the differing role of unconscious motives in the study of English and LOTEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was set to test a model of willingness to communicate (WTC) based on ideal L2 self, foreign language enjoyment (FLE), and intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among English as a foreign language (EFL) learners. To this end, 601 intermediate EFL learners volunteered to take part in an online survey by completing the scales of the four latent constructs. A two-stage structural equation modelling was used to analyze the collected data. Results of the data analysis indicated that ideal L2 self, ICC, and FLE directly predicted L2 WTC. Additionally, ICC and FLE mediated the relationships between ideal L2 self and L2 WTC. Also, FLE had a direct influence on ICC. These findings may provide important implications for EFL teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the role of motivation in the acquisition of second language (L2) writing skills in a Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) context. More specifically, the purpose of the current study was twofold: 1) to examine if vision-inspired instruction can enhance the L2 motivational self-system (L2MSS, ideal L2 self, ought-to L2 self, and learning experience) of L2 students in a CALL context, and 2) to investigate whether the changes, if any, that may occur in the students' L2MSS can also indirectly affect writing. Pretest and posttest writing tasks and questionnaire scales were used in a quasi-experimental design to measure 51 upper-intermediate L2 students' motivation for writing. ANCOVA results suggested that the ideal L2-self and learning experience of the students in the experimental group,exposed to the vision-inspired instruction,improved significantly, compared with the control group. However, the ought-to L2 self of the control group underwent a significant increase, compared with the experimental group. Furthermore, the results suggested that the vision-inspired L2MSS instruction resulted in significantly higher writing gains. Overall, the findings highlight the important role of L2MSS vision-inspired instruction in L2 students' motivation and writing achievement in a CALL context. • L2MSS vision-inspired instruction improved L2 learners' ideal L2 self. • L2MSS vision-inspired instruction enriched L2 learners' learning experience. • L2MSS vision-inspired instruction decreased L2 learners' ought-to self. • L2MSS vision-inspired instruction enhanced L2 learners' writing skills. • L2MSS vision-inspired instruction led to better L2 learning in a CALL environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines a group of Vietnamese ethnic minority students' language attitudes in relation to their identity and minority language (L1) maintenance by focusing on three languages—their L1, Vietnamese and English—in terms of integrative/instrumental orientations and ideal/ought-to language selves. Multiple semi-structured interviews with eight college-age minority students were the main source of the data. The students were found to have displayed the integrative orientation in valuing their L1, and the instrumental orientation in valuing Vietnamese and English. However, the integrative and instrumental orientations appeared to be ambiguous, which may not contribute to a comprehensive understanding of their language attitudes. A combination of integrative and instrumental orientations and ideal and ought-to language selves appeared more relevant to understand the students' language attitudes and identity. As the students' attitudes were influenced, to a large extent, by the utility of languages, it is argued that positive attitudes alone are not enough to ensure L1 maintenance or identity empowerment. Institutional support is necessary to promote the use of minority languages for their maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to Dörnyei's model of second language (L2) motivation, the motivated learner aims to incorporate the L2 into his or her self-concept, known as the ideal L2 self. This study examined the internal consistency of Dö rnyei's model among ESL Francophone students in Quebec (n = 68) by means of a questionnaire. Correlations were calculated between factors measuring Gardner's motivation construct, integrativeness, and Dörnyei's ideal L2 self; both of these factors were then correlated with the criterion measure of intended learning effort. Findings from the present study revealed not only a strong relationship between Gardner's integrativeness and Dörnyei's ideal L2 self, but also that the L2 self construct was a more reliable indicator of intended learning effort. These results support calls to reframe L2 motivation within the psychological concept of the self. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explores variation in L2 motivation (Ideal L2 self and Ought-to L2 self) of 88 Chinese English university learners in China over a one-year period. It examines change in L2 motivation and the evolving relationship with other measures at three data collection points. No significant changes were found in Ideal L2 self values but Ought-to L2 self values increased significantly between Time 1, 2 and 3. Regression analyses suggest that the significant increase in values of Ought-to L2 self is affected by different motivational factors at various times. We claim that perceptions of the dynamic variation can be obscured in conventional statistical analyses because of the graphical representation of mean values of groups at different times. The use of bubble graphs representing number of participants whose values increase, decrease or remain stable between data collection points, shatters the false impression of stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the ideal L2 self as the proposed key driver of self-motivation in L2 learning has received considerable scholarly attention over the past ten years, the conditions for its motivational capacity remain largely unexplored in empirical studies. This article details a quantitative measure that operationalizes the ideal L2 self in terms of specific properties that have been associated with its motivating capacity and links these with effort expended towards its attainment. The results of a study into the properties of the ideal L2 selves of 97 German upper-intermediate to advanced learners of English are discussed, in which levels of self-motivation to attain a specific ideal L2 self were most strongly associated with how frequently the ideal L2 self was envisioned, followed by the perceived present-future self-discrepancy and the extent to which this ideal L2 self was desired. Although the perceived plausibility of a specific ideal L2 self was also positively associated with effort expended towards its attainment, its unique contribution to predicting effort did not reach significance when the variance explained by the other properties was controlled for. The implications of these findings for researchers and language educators are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the relative effects of two treatments-goal setting and visualization-on enhancing Willingness to Communicate (WTC) among a group of 373 Japanese university EFL learners. Although longitudinal studies in both EFL and ESL settings have been conducted to examine the developmental aspect of WTC, no solid results of enhancing WTC through instruction have been found in EFL settings. Based on Dörnyei's (2005) concept of the Ideal L2 Self, lessons were designed for the two treatment groups so learners could visualize themselves as future specialists in their field, discussing global issues and presenting their creative ideas for solving these global problems. For the second treatment group, a goal setting activity was introduced in which students articulated their speaking goals in each class. The nontreatment group, the visualization group, and the visualization plus goal setting group had approximately the same amount of communicative activities. The ANCOVA results suggest that the visualization treatment alone was not effective in enhancing learners' L2 WTC over the nontreatment group. However, when visualization was combined with goal setting, the increase in learners' L2 WTC was significantly larger compared to the visualization group, and by implication, significantly larger compared to the nontreatment group. Additionally, the impact of visualization and goal setting on learners' WTC was qualitatively explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This action research study reports results from students (449 in phase one; 341 in phase two) in conversation-based, EFL classrooms. In phase one, we asked students, "Please describe a group of classmates that you could learn English well with. What would you all do to help each other learn better and more enjoyably?" Then in phase two, we coded their answers into 16 general descriptors and returned these to students, asking them to respond to three Likert questions: (a) this is important, (b) my classmates are doing this, and (c) I am doing this. We found that sharing these descriptors of Ideal L2 Classmates among and across classrooms enabled students to imagine further how they could help their classmates' learning. Quantitative and qualitative results indicate a resonating group-framed motivation effect in which students tend to become more helpful and resourceful for each other. We hypothesize this effect occurs through first formulating ideals about others and then identifying self-reflexively with these ideals, which we call reciprocal idealizing. Findings suggest that pedagogical applications of possible selves theory would do well to include active participation of imaginings within a lived experience, proximal peers and environments, past and present self guides, and possible others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the fact that motivation is one of the most important individual differences (Dörnyei, 2005), there have been few attempts to examine what impact it has on studying English in Poland. This study aims to find out the general motivational properties of Polish students aged 15-16, focussing on the role of language learning goals, self-constructs, the influence of parents, peers and language learning anxiety. The second aim is to investigate which variables contribute significantly to students' self-regulated behaviour. To answer these questions, the researcher used a mixed methods approach, in which 236 students enrolled in compulsory education in southern Poland completed a motivational questionnaire and nine motivated learners participated in an interview. The quantitative data from the questionnaire was analysed using SPSS and the interviews were transcribed, coded and analysed qualitatively. The findings suggest that the students endorsed a number of language learning goals, such as knowledge orientation, international orientation and instrumental orientation. The role of parental encouragement, peer group pressure and language learning anxiety was limited. Although the questionnaire pointed to moderate levels of self-constructs, this was different for motivated learners who reported positive self-evaluations. Regression analysis showed that motivated behaviour, intrinsic motivation and the ideal L2 self influenced self-regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent theorizing on second language (L2) motivation has proposed viewing motivation as a function of the language learners' vision of their desired future language selves. This would suggest that the intensity of motivation is partly dependent on the learners' capability to generate mental imagery. In order to test this hypothesis, this study investigates whether learner characteristics are related to sensory and imagery aspects with indices of the strength of the learners' future L2 self-guides (ideal and ought-to L2 selves) and how these variables are linked to learning achievement in two target languages, English and Mandarin, assessed both by self-report and objective measures. One hundred seventy-two Year 8 Chinese students (ages 13-15) completed a questionnaire survey, and the results reveal several significant associations between the future self-guides and intended effort and actual grades, including a consistently positive relationship between the ideal self and the criterion measures. The findings also confirm the multisensory dimension of future self-guides, suggesting the importance of a broad imagery capacity (including both visual and auditory components) in the development of individuals' future self-identities. Finally, the ideal-self images associated with different languages were shown to form distinct L2-specific visions, which has various implications for future research with regard to the potential positive or negative interaction of these self images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This article explores 59 university students' motivation for learning German as a foreign language over the course of one academic year. It sheds light on the role of the ideal L2 self, integrative and instrumental orientations, and task-based self-efficacy for students' motivation and pays particular attention to the relationship between the ideal L2 self and self-efficacy beliefs. With the exception of integrative orientation, all variables were significantly correlated with self-perceived effort and thus appeared to play a role in students' motivation to engage with language learning. While students could well imagine becoming proficient users of German, task based self-efficacy to deal with the specific language tasks required at university was relatively low at the beginning of the year, and self-efficacy beliefs for speaking and listening further declined over the course of the year. Given the significant correlations between the ideal L2 self and task based self-efficacy, it is proposed that attending to students' self-efficacy beliefs may also nourish students' ideal L2 self. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper reports a study of Pakistani undergraduate students' motivation to learn English, using Dörnyei's (2009) L2 Motivational Self System as the main theoretical framework, while including some context-specific factors. The purpose of the study was both to contribute to the ongoing validation of Dörnyei's model for describing contemporary L2 motivation and to capture motivational factors which were salient in this under-researched global context. A survey was designed and administered to over 1000 undergraduates in various institutions in the Pakistani province of Punjab. Correlation and regression analyses of the data provide considerable empirical support for the validity of the L2 Motivational Self System and its relevance in the Pakistani context, with attitudes to the learning experience and the Ideal L2 self again found to be the strongest predictors of learning effort. However, a proposed new construct – National Interest – made a strong contribution to the Ideal L2 self, highlighting the need to understand the association of English with the national identities and interests of learners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The study on which this article is based investigated reasons for learning a foreign language at university in a predominantly English-speaking environment (the UK). It examined the relative importance of motivational variables as theorised in the field of second language (L2) motivation, and the effect of first language (L1) and linguistic background (English only versus other), country of birth (the UK versus other), choice of target language (French versus Spanish) and centre of study (specialist language department versus language centre). Despite the ‘monoglot culture’ that prevails in many English-speaking countries, having an English-only profile and especially being born in the UK proved to be important motivating factors in the participants'' decision to learn a foreign language. Few significant differences were found between learners of French and Spanish, which were both deemed to have continued instrumental value despite the dominance of English in the world today. The notion of ideal L2 self proved potentially more useful than traditional motivational constructs. However, it is argued that the concept would benefit from further research in particular amongst non-specialist language learners, who appear to have been largely neglected by L2 motivation theory to date, despite possibly representing the future of foreign language learning. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Learning outcomes are always the product of the interaction between individual learner agency and social structures. Recently concern has been expressed about unequal access to English, recognised as an important resource for social advancement, for rural populations in developing countries. This paper explores this issue by focusing on one element of learner agency (motivation) in a small group of young adolescent learners in rural Indonesia, who were sampled from a previous quantitative study. Through interviews with the learners and their parents, the study strives to understand the nature of their agency and the way it is shaped by contextual constraints and affordances. Results suggest that the learners do develop Ideal L2 selves though these tend towards fantasy, that they do exert effort to learn English, but this is not systematic or well-resourced, and that their parents are very aware of the limited support they can offer their children. While these constraints may help explain the rural learners' slow progress in English, the paper argues that spreading mobile technologies offer hope for improved outcomes in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the framework of the L2 motivational self system, the present study investigates the temporal evolution of the motivational characteristics of Iranian learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) across three different populations: secondary school, high school, and university students. The data were collected from a number of 1,041 Iranian learners of English using a questionnaire survey specifically developed to be used in the context of Iran. The ANOVA results of the study showed that the promotion-focus variables (i.e. the ideal L2 self, L2 learning experience, instrumentality-promotion, attitudes towards L2 culture and community) generally improved with age up to entry into university; on the other hand, the variables with a preventional regulatory focus (i.e. the ought-to L2 Self, family influence, instrumentality-prevention) declined with age. In addition, the results of the multiple-regression analyses showed that only variables with a promotional orientation predicted motivated learning behavior and the factors predicting motivation and the ideal L2 self were different from the factors associated with the ought-to L2 self. The results are discussed based on the socio-educational context of Iran. The study provides strong evidence for a dynamic perspective towards L2 motivation and possible L2 selves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to provide observational evidence on the relationship between teachers' use of motivational strategies and students' motivated behavior in the English as a foreign language (EFL) context of Iran. To this end, 741 male learners of English from 26 secondary school classes taught by 17 teachers participated in the study. The teachers' use of motivational strategies and the students' motivated behavioral codes were measured using a classroom observation instrument originally developed by Guilloteaux and Dörnyei (2008). Furthermore, the participating students completed a questionnaire that consisted of both situation-specific and general-motivational scales. Finally, a post hoc rating scale was employed to evaluate the teachers' overall motivational practice. The results showed that the teachers' motivational practice is significantly related to the students' motivated behavior. Further, while no differences were found between high-motivation and low-motivation learner groups in terms of their ideal second language (L2) selves, the low-motivation group had stronger ought-to L2 selves. The results will be discussed with reference to the socio-educational context of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present study takes the initiative to test a theoretical model that subsumes the ideal L2 self, the ought-to L2 self, and the L2 learning experience in L2 motivational self system, as well as English anxiety and intended effort to learn English. A number of 1011 Iranian high school students completed a questionnaire survey specifically developed to be used in the context of Iran. Using AMOS version 16.0, structural equation modeling was run to analyze the proposed model. Based on several goodness-of-fit criteria, the results confirmed the validity of the anticipated construct. It was found that all the variables in the model significantly contributed to intended effort; however, while the ideal L2 self and the L2 learning experience decreased students’ English anxiety, the ought-to L2 self significantly made them more anxious. The results are discussed based on the socio-educational context of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The research reported in this paper investigates how the motivational and attitudinal dispositions of students who learnt both English and German simultaneously at the time of data collection differ for the two foreign languages. The study is based on data gathered with the help of a standardised questionnaire from 237 16/17-year-old learners of English and German. Based on L2 Motivational System, it can be concluded that students’ Ideal L2 self proved to be the most significant component of predicting motivated learning behaviour for both English and German as a first or second foreign language. However, only English as a first foreign language (as opposed to as a second foreign language) was appraised with solely positive attitudes and dispositions by the students. For German (either first or second foreign language) and English as a second foreign language, the negative effects of the motivational dimensions related to the other foreign language cannot be neglected. In order to explain the complex results, they will be discussed within the framework of the Dynamic Systems Theory (DST; ). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]