CUELT Çukurova International ELT Teachers Conferences "Replacing Cliches: Teaching Subordinated to Learning", Adana, Turkey, 28 - 29 April 2016, pp.30
An Analysis of the Role of Optimal Arousal, Novelty and Learner Competency in EFL Learners’ Motivation Levels
Abstract
Learner motivation is one of the milestones of learning a foreign language and it plays a determining role in the process. Considering its place in language learning and teaching, many studies conducted in this area scrutinized its role and relationship with other dimensions. The present study aims to delve into the role of optimal arousal, novelty and competence in learners’ motivation levels. In order to attain this goal, 121 (F=73 M=48) secondary school students studying in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades, were randomly chosen. They were asked to score on a five-point Likert scale. The scale consisted of two parts and 37 items. IBM SPSS Statistics 23.0 statistical analysis software was used to interpret the findings of the study. The results showed that there is a significant relationship between both types of learner motivation (intrinsic and extrinsic) and the presence of optimal arousal variable in the classroom. Meanwhile, the study revealed that while there is a considerable consistence between extrinsic motivation and competence variable, it is not valid for intrinsic motivation. Finally, the present study pointed out that the more there are new and different activities, subjects and techniques used in the classroom, the more motivated the students become. In the light of the present study, curriculum of secondary schools should be reorganized in conformity with the dimensions of optimal arousal and novelty.
Keywords: motivation, optimal arousal, novelty, learner competence