HomeAbstract of 10th-ictleA Mixed-methods Study Investigating Activities to Motivate Elementary Language Learners Using Self-determination Theory

A Mixed-methods Study Investigating Activities to Motivate Elementary Language Learners Using Self-determination Theory

  • Nov 26, 2025
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Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on Teaching, Learning and Education

Year: 2025

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A Mixed-methods Study Investigating Activities to Motivate Elementary Language Learners Using Self-determination Theory

Joyce Liu, Weihua Niu

ABSTRACT:

Learning foreign languages at a younger age can greatly increase the chances of later language proficiency. It may also strengthen one’s overall cognitive skills, such as memory, problem-solving, and creativity. A growing body of recent research highlights that motivation plays a central role in shaping learning outcomes (Ryan & Deci, 2020; Schunk et al., 2022) and classroom activities can effectively improve student motivation. Grounded in the framework of Self-Determination Theory, the present study employs a mixed-methods design to examine classroom activities used in elementary school second language learning, and to explore how these activities relate to students’ motivation—a critical factor for sustained learning motivation. In Study 1, teacher interviews and classroom observations identified five classroom activities that informed the design of a survey for Study 2. Study 2 then surveyed 61 fifth-grade FLES students regarding their perceived engagement in these activities and their motivation within the Self-Determination Theory framework. Students’ home language backgrounds were also examined. The results showed that multilingual students are more intrinsically motivated than monolingual students. Cultural and creative activities interested more intrinsically motivated students, while game-based activities helped spark motivation among more extrinsically motivated students. Incorporating elements of interactivity and movement into activities helped reduce anxiety and encourage participation among students. Overall, this study highlights the value of incorporating different types of activities into the elementary language classroom to foster engagement and motivation among a diverse group of learners.

Keywords: Classroom Activities, Elementary School, Home Language Environment, Motivational Orientation, Second Language Learning