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Emergent LOTE motivation? The L3 motivational dynamics of Japanese-major university students in China

  • Xinran Wu ORCID logo EMAIL logo and Yongcan Liu ORCID logo

Abstract

This study explores language other than English (LOTE) learners’ third language (L3) motivational dynamics within the framework of the L2 motivational self-system theory. Analytical primacy is given to the role of the language learning experience in generating individual variances and non-linearities in motivational development. Four Japanese-major university students depicted their distinct L3 motivational fluctuations on a Motivational Timeline Sheet and recounted their stories of learning experience through narrative interviews, which were coded revealing the corresponding changes in learners’ L3 self-guides. It is found that learners’ meaning-making of experience provides the foundation for their self-guide construction, which leads to the emergence of motivation. Self-efficacy, relational influences, and perceived relevance of L3 learning play mediating roles between the learning experience and motivational change. This study calls for a non-reductionist and developmental way of conceptualising LOTE-as-L3 motivation and for attention paid to the unique opportunities and struggles faced by LOTE learners.


Corresponding author: Xinran Wu, Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK, E-mail:

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Received: 2021-05-07
Accepted: 2021-10-16
Published Online: 2021-10-29
Published in Print: 2023-09-26

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