Affective Variables in Second Language Acquisition and their Effect on the Spanish Academic Context

Authors

  • Alba Muñoz Universidad de Granada
  • José Luis Ortega-Martín Universidad de Granada

Keywords:

second language acquisition, affect, anxiety, learning

Abstract

For many students, learning a Second Language (SL) can either be a rewarding or a threatening experience. Recent studies claim that this is caused by the role that the affective domain plays in the learning process. Since the affective variables are considered the least understood by researchers in Second Language Acquisition (SLA), this paper focuses on them. The main purpose in this research is to study the connection among anxiety, attitude and motivation and their effect on the academic performance of sixty-six Spanish students who are learning English as a SL. Teachers are also observed to know to what extent they alter those students’ attitudes, feelings of anxiety and motivation towards their language classes.  Since the students who take part in this research share the same teacher, other two teachers are observed in order to analyze whether they have the same effect on their students or not. Results point out that there are clear contrasts between bilingual and non bilingual students and the different performances of the three teachers who were observed.

DOI: 10.20420/rlfe.2015.0003

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Author Biographies

Alba Muñoz, Universidad de Granada

Alba Muñoz has received a degree in English Studies from the University of Granada in 2013 and a master degree in teaching Secondary Education, Upper Secondary Education, Professional Training and Languages. Her research interests include second language acquisition (SLA) and relationships among anxiety, attitude and motivation.

José Luis Ortega-Martín, Universidad de Granada

José Luis Ortega, PhD, is a principal lecturer at the University of Granada who has been in charge of International Relations at the Faculty of Education, Head of in-Service Training at the University of Granada. His research interests include motivation, classroom management, international teaching practice periods and bilingualism.

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Published

2015-07-27

How to Cite

Muñoz, A., & Ortega-Martín, J. L. (2015). Affective Variables in Second Language Acquisition and their Effect on the Spanish Academic Context. Revista De Lenguas Para Fines Específicos, 21(1), 41–66. Retrieved from https://ojsspdc.ulpgc.es/ojs/index.php/LFE/article/view/239

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Section

Sección Monográfica/Special Issue