Focusing on English Learners' Concerns: Investigating De-Motivational Sources of ESL Learners in Classroom Setting of a Public Sector University of Pakistan

Abstract

L2 de-motivation has considerable role in diminishing or slowing down  the second/L2 (English) learning outcomes. However, L2 de-motivation in general and the context of Pakistan in particular is under-researched. So, the main purpose of the study is to identify various L2 de-motivational factors of the BS Undergraduate L2 learners of the Department of English of a remote and under-researched Kohat University of Science and Technology, Khyber Pakhtunhwa, Pakistan. Drawing upon the questionnaires of the well referenced L2 de-motivation experts and also adding some items related to gender and anxiety oriented L2 de-motivation, a modified closed ended questionnaire of 40 items was developed. The data was obtained from 400 (250 Male and 150 Females) L2 learners was analysed by applying the rarely used but much recommended exploratory factor analysis.  Total 08 L2 de-motivational factors emerged: Teacher, syllabus, non communicative methods, L2 anxiety, lack of classroom resources, unfavourable classroom environment and rarely noted gender related L2 de-motivational factors. Moreover, in this study in contrast to earlier studies in Pakistan, we are able to not only identify the various L2 de-motivational factors in well defined forms but also construct and validate the modified questionnaire with the help of applying factor analysis. Thus the questionnaire can be exploited for future research in field of L2 de-motivation in general and particularly in Pakistan. Similarly, unlike the earlier studies, learners' negative attitudes towards English and learning its culture did not emerge as a L2 de-motivational factor. Moreover, new but equally contesting gender related L2 de-motivational factor also emerged. This study highlights that L2 teachers should adopt motivating teaching methods,  interesting teaching materials and develop interesting syllabus. Moreover, L2 learners' needs analysis be given more importance for addressing their L2 de-motivation and thus enhancing their language proficiency in the Higher Education in Pakistan.