Language learning motivation of students from a special educational school in Hong Kong

Authors

  • Xiao Hu The University of Hong Kong
  • Mairin Laura Hennebry The University of Hong Kong
  • Cheuk Lam Cheung The University of Hong Kong

Keywords:

language learning motivation, self-efficacy, parental influence, comparative study, special school

Abstract

Special educational needs (SEN) have attracted considerable attention in education and educational research. Nevertheless, limited research attention has been given to the second language (L2) learning of students with SEN in special schools and even less to their L2 learning motivation (LLM), despite the significant role of LLM in L2 learning success. This paper compares LLM data gathered from 66, grade 7-10, students with SEN in a special school and 66, grade 7-10, non-SEN students from mainstream schools in Hong Kong. Findings from a motivational questionnaire reveal higher levels of LLM among the special school students (SSS) than the mainstream school students (MSS). One-way MANOVA and Cohen’s d, show students from the special school have significantly higher Ought-to L2 Self and English learning attitude yet significantly lower required orientation than their mainstream school peers. Regression analysis has allowed the investigation of factors interacting with SSS’ LLM, suggesting that self-efficacy and parental influence are significant predictors of the LLM.

Author Biographies

  • Xiao Hu, The University of Hong Kong
    Hu Xiao is a Ph.D. student at the Faculty of Education, University of Hong Kong,. She has worked as an English language teacher in Mainland China and a senior research assistant at Hong Kong tertiary institutions. Her research interests are language learning motivation, individual differences, and educational upward mobility.
  • Mairin Laura Hennebry, The University of Hong Kong
    Mairin Hennebry is an assistant professor at the Faculty of Education, University of Hong Kong. Her research interests include language learning motivation and language teacher education. Recent publications appear in journals including TESOL Quarterly, International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism and Higher Education Research and Development. She has worked in a range of institutions and settings, both as a teacher and in developing teachers.
  • Cheuk Lam Cheung, The University of Hong Kong
    Cheung Cheuk Lam, Kelvin holds a master’s degree from the University of Bristol. He has worked as a research assistant at the University of Hong Kong and in a local school. Language learning and special educational needs, and inclusion studies are his areas of research interest.
The Asian Journal of Applied Linguistics, Volume 6, Issue 1. March 2019

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Published

2019-03-31

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 1 (2019)

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Articles

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How to Cite

Language learning motivation of students from a special educational school in Hong Kong. (2019). The Asian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 6(1), 68-81. https://caes.hku.hk/ajal/index.php/ajal/article/view/602