Directed Motivational Currents and Language Education

Exploring Implications for Pedagogy

By (author) Christine Muir

Publication date:

17 September 2020

Publisher

Multilingual Matters

Dimensions:

234x156mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9781788928854

Directed motivational currents (DMCs) are goal-directed motivational surges in pursuit of a much-desired personal outcome. This book introduces the reader to cutting-edge theory and research in second language learner motivation and presents empirical research which investigates DMCs in the context of language learning. The studies explore the wider relevance of DMC theory from participants recruited worldwide, answering questions such as how many (and which) participants reported having experienced DMCs and what emerged as common triggers initiating such experiences. The studies also discuss the pedagogical implications of DMC theory, investigating whether it is possible to design and implement a project (specifically, a project ‘with DMC potential’) in such a way that it may be able to purposefully facilitate a group-DMC with learners in a second language classroom. The book’s accessible writing style makes it suitable for researchers and students who are interested in second language learning as well as for teachers and trainee teachers who are looking for classroom inspiration.

Motivational currents are intriguing phenomena – once you’ve experienced one you’ll never forget it. This book shows how these surges of motivational energy can be harnessed in the language classroom to boost learning. The author’s findings leave no doubt about the potential value of DMCs in the language learning process. This is SLA research at its most scholarly and most applied!