Ideal L2 self in the Expanding Circle: The case of English language learners in Iran.

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]