Motivation for English language learning: A study of undergraduate students at the University of Transport and communications

This research study investigates the motivation for English language learning among undergraduate students at the University of Transport and Communications (UTC). The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to gather data. It includes a literature review on motivation theories, language learning, and questionnaire surveys. Content analysis is used for qualitative data, while descriptive and inferential statistics are used for quantitative data analysis.
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Motivation for English language learning: A study of undergraduate students at the University of Transport and communications MOTIVATION FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING: A STUDY OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS Supervisor: Dr. Vu Minh Hang Students: Nhan Vu Kiet, Tran Dinh Bao Son Hoang Van Trong Class: The International Business Management Class 1, Cohort 63 (EMN – K02)Abstract. Motivation is a crucial factor influencing language learning outcomes,particularly in English language learning for undergraduate students. This researchstudy investigates the motivation for English language learning among undergraduatestudents at the University of Transport and Communications (UTC). The study adopts amixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to gather data.It includes a literature review on motivation theories, language learning, andquestionnaire surveys. Content analysis is used for qualitative data, while descriptive andinferential statistics are used for quantitative data analysis. The findings highlight themotivational factors affecting English language learning, including instrumental andintegrative motivations, intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, and anxiety influences. Thisresearch contributes to understanding motivation in language learning and hasimplications for language teaching and learning practices at UTC.Keywords: students, learning English, motivation, attitudes, teaching1 Introduction1.1 Research BackgroundThese days, English is considered one of the most common languages globally. Itis widely used in daily communication, science, technology and global commerce.According to Graddol (1997), English plays a very significant role in differentareas worldwide. It serves as a working language for international organizationsand conferences, scientific publications, international banking (economic affairsand trade), advertising for global brands, and audio-visual cultural products.English has emerged as a crucial medium for a diverse range of global activities,including but not limited to popular entertainment like films, television, and music.It also plays a significant role in international tourism, higher education, ensuringsafety in international travel via airlines and maritime transportation, and as a relaylanguage in interpretation and translation. Therefore, English is a really powerful“weapon”, a must-have item that everyone should master, especially students,because once they graduate, they will join the working force, and almost everycompany needs laborers who are competent in English. But sadly, not everyonecan meet their demands and miss the opportunity.This study investigates the students motivation and attitude toward learningEnglish. From that, we can propose excellent solutions to solve persistent problemsamong students. The findings of this research will contribute to the development 119of effective English language teaching strategies that can help to enhance studentsEnglish proficiency and support their academic and career goals.1.2 Research Objectives and Scope1.2.1 Research ObjectivesThe primary goal of this study is to enhance the current understanding of how toselect an optimized method for learning English. This study aims to achieve thefollowing major objectives:The research objectives for the study are as follows: 1. To classify and categorize various criteria that may influence student motivation towards learning English based on their characteristics 2. To identify the criteria that contribute to the decline in English learning 3. To develop effective methods for English language learning to enhance student motivation.1.2.2 Research Questions A set of research questions was formulated to determine the scope of the research: 1. How would motivation affect a students attitude toward learning English? 2. What are the barriers and challenges that an individual faces in learning and using English, and how can these be overcome? 3. How would students improve their English?1.2.3 Scope of the Study The research investigates the factors affecting students motivation to learnEnglish. This research examines various factors influencing students motivationtoward English learning, such as their personal beliefs and attitudes, previousexperiences with learning the language, and perceptions of Englishs relevance andusefulness in their academic and professional lives.The study also explores the impact of different teaching methodologies andclassroom environments on student motivation, including the role of teacherfeedback, peer interactions, and the use of technology in English languagelearning. Meanwhile, the research identifies cultural or contextual factors that mayinfluence students motivation to learn English.1.2.4 Contributions of the ResearchThe importance of research on improving student motivation and engagement inlearning English cannot be overstated. The outcomes of this research will be highlyvaluable, as they will provide insights into the factors that influence studentmotivation and engagement in learning English. These insights will help educatorsand policymakers develop effective teaching strategies and materials to enhancestudent motivation and engagement, ultimately leading to better learningoutcomes.2 Literature ReviewThe exten ...