Multilingual Selves and Motivations for Learning Languages Other Than English in Asian Contexts

This edited volume focuses on the experiences of individuals learning languages other than English (LOTEs) in a range of Asian contexts that have traditionally been under-represented in the literature. Aligning with the 'multilingual turn' in SLA, it views learners as individuals of a multilingual society with unique, complex, heterogenous and dynamic identities. The chapters explore the learners’ motivational trajectories, multilingual identities and their conceptualisations of the 'ideal multilingual self'. This volume enhances our critical understanding of language learning motivation through empirical findings and conceptual insights from studies of motivation in specific regions in Asia, including Greater China, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Pakistan and Syria. Providing insight into the multilingual identities of individuals learning LOTEs, it will appeal to students and scholars in second language acquisition, researchers in language learning motivation and policymakers in language education.

Anas Hajar is Associate Professor of Multilingual Education at Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan. He is particularly interested in motivational issues in language learning and intercultural engagement and also works in the areas of internationalisation, education abroad, language learning strategies and shadow education. He is the author of International Students' Challenges, Strategies and Future Vision (Multilingual Matters, 2019).