Developing Student's Motivation to Learn Foreign Language in Tertiary Classroom and Beyond

Abstract

Correction of time deficit in acquiring the required level of command of English is possible only due to more active use ofextramural activities: student's independent work and project work. Unfortunately, many students, especially those at a lowerlevels of command of language have insufficient motivation to continue their learning. The aim of the paper is to present a setof techniques used to boost motivation to learn English among students of engineering tertiary school. The techniques usedwere partially borrowed from secondary and primary school practice and adapted to suit the new demographics. At the heart ofthe method is the notion to make students use language outside classroom in preselected but non-adapted context: readingexcerpts from Wikipedia, declamation, creative tasks. It is further informed by psychology and builds upon feeling of fulfillmentbinding it with studying English. The method was applied to several group of engineering students and resulted in someincrease in attendance and significant increase in attempts at homework which we interpret as indicators of increasedmotivation. Intensive use of different games, unusual tasks and assignments allowed students to show their creative ability andimagination. The use of authentic materials while a naturally more challenging task is more rewarding not only from linguisticpoint of view, but motivationally as well. Many students regardless their level of English are interested in technology andresults of modern research. This interest may and should be used to boost motivation.