Abstract

BACHELOR, Jeremy W. Religion and Its Motivating Effect on the L2 Classroom. Folios [online]. 2015, n.42, pp.179-187. ISSN 0123-4870.

There are some L2 educators who say that motivation is the most important factor that influences student learning and the successful acquisition of a foreign language. As a result, a study regarding motivation in L2 students is crucial because it allows researchers to explore reasons for success (or failure) in learning a foreign language. A study of this nature also allows greater insight into the ways that different types of motivation can help teachers and students alike in energizing the process of learning a language, which can bring greater success to the pedagogical process. The present study suggests that religion is a motivating factor for many students. Students in the foreign language classroom who have religious goals may benefit from incorporating religious ideals and making connections with sacred texts. With these concepts in mind, instructors could design an L2 curriculum with religious tenets that implements the "Five Cs" of foreign language instruction. Teachers can engage their students in the larger questions of cultural and linguistic identity, ultimately pointing the students toward a consideration of their own identities. The result is a more successful L2 instruction, in addition to well-rounded students.

Keywords : Foreign language; motivation; religion.

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