KOTESOL International Conference 2016
(Concurrent Session)
Edward Jay Quinto, Mapua Institute of Technology - Manila
John Christopher Castillo, Mapua Institute of Technology - Manila
Reconceptualizing the Language Motivation of Timorese English Language Learners in the Philippines
Abstract
Second language (henceforth L2) motivation has been traditionally studied using the lens of integrative motivation. However, this framework presents problems in that it is limiting and lacks insights from emerging cognitive motivational research. Hence, this paper investigates the L2 motivations of Timorese English language learners (henceforth ELLs) using D?nyei's (2009) L2 Motivational Self System and Markus and Nurius's (1986) possible-selves theory as framework. Ten Timorese ELLs studying in a school of higher learning in the Philippines participated in a free writing task and a follow-up focus group discussion, which aimed to examine the content and functions of their two most important types of possible selves: the ideal L2 self and ought-to L2 self. The results suggest that the students' ideal L2 self coincides with the original theoretical construct, which includes a promotion-focused function for studying English, i.e., for the participants to achieve personal goals and communicate with other people. Interestingly, however, the present study corroborates Chen's (2012) findings in the Taiwanese context that the ought-to L2 self of the students is not simply prevention-focused, but a mixture of prevention- and promotion-focused functions of learning English. The findings point to necessary research, curriculum design and pedagogical implications, which are discussed as this paper closes.
Biographicals
Edward Jay Quinto is assistant professor of English, Communication and Research at the School of Languages, Humanities and Social Sciences of Mapua Institute of Technology, Manila, Philippines. At present, he is writing his dissertation for the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Linguistics at De La Salle University in Manila.
John Christopher Castillo is assistant professor of psychology and social sciences at the School of Languages, Humanities and Social Sciences of Mapua Institute of Technology, Manila, Philippines. At present, he is pursuing his PhD in Educational Psychology at De La Salle University in Manila.
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