Understanding EFL students’ motivation for participating in extracurricular contests: Insights from China

Year 2019, , 44 - 53, 01.01.2019

Xiaoquan Pan , Zhengdong Gan

https://doi.org/10.24289/ijsser.493867

Abstract

This study aims to
provide an understanding of English as foreign language (EFL) university
students’ perception and experience of participating in extracurricular English
contests in China. In this study, the extrinsic factors and intrinsic beliefs
that contribute to university students’ motivation to participate in
extracurricular English contests during their study at university were
examined. Forty-nine students who have participated in extracurricular English
contests were investigated in questionnaire, eight of whom were invited for
in-depth semi-structured interviews. Research findings show that instructors’
support is the highest external factor that motivated students to participate
in extracurricular English contests. On the other hand, rewards (monetary or
honorary) constituted a very important factor, and school’s support and parent’s/friends’
encouragement are other important factors that contribute to their willingness
to participate. Additionally, the research also revealed the crucial importance
of their strong intrinsic beliefs. 

Keywords

student motivation, EFL students

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