230591 Language Learner Motivation and Individual Learner Differences (S) (WiSe 2006/2007)

This course will explore theories of motivation which are relevant to foreign language learning. Throughout the course attention will be drawn to individual variation among learners concerning motivation and the criterial learner variables involved. Relevant psychological and attitudinal differences among learners will be considered.

Special emphasis will be placed on the extent to which learner motivation can be influenced by the teacher. We will take a developmental view of motivation, distinguishing between initial motivation and continuing motivation over longer periods of time. This includes considering how teachers can work with learners to ensure that motivation continues over time. Some attention will be given to the phenomenon of anxiety in the language classroom as a demotivating factor, and we will see what can be done to lower anxiety levels. Finally, we will link language learning motivation to the issue of learner autonomy and self-motivation.

Two students will be expected to introduce a topic from the course plan each week.

Participants will need to purchase the course book:

Z. Dörnyei. 2001. Motivational Strategies in the Language Classroom. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Credits:
3 = regular attendance + active participation + course diary + presentation
6 = regular attendance + active participation + course diary + long essay (10-12 pages)