Motivational Currents in Language Learning: Frameworks for Focused Interventions

Building on Zoltán Dörnyei’s authoritative work in the field of learner motivation, this book introduces a new conceptualization―Directed Motivational Currents (DMCs)―and sets out the defining aspects of what they are, what they are not, and how they are related to language learning motivation. Going beyond focused behavior in a single activity, DMCs concern intensive long-term motivation. The distinctive feature of the theory is that it views motivation not simply as a springboard for action but also as a uniquely self-renewing and sustainable process. It is this energizing capacity which distinguishes DMCs from almost every other motivational construct described in the research literature.

Motivational Currents in Language Learning offers new insights, valuable both to motivation researchers and classroom practitioners. The accessible style, along with plentiful illustrations and practical suggestions for promoting sustained learning, invite readers to think about motivation in a different way. Highly relevant for language teachers, teachers-in-training, teacher educators, and researchers in TESOL and applied linguistics, the book explains how the DMC construct can be integrated into course structures and teaching methodologies, and encourages teachers to try out novel methods for harnessing motivational power in classroom settings.

Zoltán Dörnyei is Professor of Psycholinguistics at the School of English, University of Nottingham, UK.

Alastair Henry is an Associate Professor in language education at University West, Sweden.

Christine Muir is a Postgraduate Teaching Fellow at the School of English, University of Nottingham, UK.