231131 Language Learning Motivation and Individual Learner Differences (weiterf. Schulen) (S) (WiSe 2013/2014)

This course will focus mainly on individual differences among learners in their motivation to learn a foreign language, investigating personality, language learning aptitude, learning style, self-esteem and beliefs. We will differentiate between various types of motivation and adopt a dynamic approach to motivation, distinguishing between initial motivation to learn a foreign language and the ways in which motivation may change in intensity and quality over months and years of learning a language. We will examine the influences on both quality and intensity of motivation and in particular how the teacher and the classroom can affect motivation. In this respect we will also devote some attention to the phenomenon of language learning anxiety. Emphasis will be placed on the links between learner autonomy, self-regulation of learning and self-motivation.

Active participation on a regular basis will be expected. There will be no written exam but participants will be required to prepare a presentation and/or submit a term paper.