Learning English as an L2 in the global context : changing English, changing motivation
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Changing English
Publication Date
1-1-2013
Volume
20
Issue
4
First Page
377
Last Page
387
Keywords
motivation; English as a global language; language learning; integrative motivation
Abstract
As the English language has become a global lingua franca today, it is not surprising that changes in attitudes and perceptions towards learning English in the international context have taken place at the same time. In this paper, I critically examine the notion of ‘integrative motivation’ in the literature of second language (L2) learning with respect to the changing role of the English language in the global context. In particular, this paper attempts to re-conceptualise the notion of integrative motivation by considering the results of recent empirical research on L2 motivation. It is argued that the predominant motivation of learning English among most L2 learners is no longer concerned with ‘integration’ in the target native English-speaking culture, but with the construction of a ‘bi-cultural’ or ‘world citizen’ identity, as well as identification with the international community. The paper ends by suggesting new ways of understanding the concept of motivation in L2 learning in today’s global context.
DOI
10.1080/1358684X.2013.855564
Print ISSN
1358684X
E-ISSN
14693585
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2013 The editors of Changing English.
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Sung, C. C. M. (2013). Learning English as an L2 in the global context: Changing English, changing motivation. Changing English, 20(4), 377-387. doi: 10.1080/1358684X.2013.855564