Components of Motivation in the ESL/EFL Classroom

<p>Motivation is a critical factor for second language and foreignlanguage learning because it affects students' willingness to<br>approach learning and using the English language. Teachers<br>who hope to provide meaningful instruction need to consider<br>how to increase the motivational levels of their students to<br>ensure student success in learning. This paper examines what<br>university students studying English as a second language or a<br>foreign language (ESL/EFL) have to say about what does or<br>does not positively affect their motivation to study the English<br>language. How intrinsic and extrinsic motivation affect<br>ESL/EFL learners are explained by examining student surveys<br>and current research. How self-directed or autonomous<br>learning stimulates intrinsic motivation is a major part of the<br>paper, as is how teacher-centered classrooms tend to make<br>ESL students more extrinsically motivated.</p>