Motivation Concepts Applied in the Korean ESL Context

Abstract

Motivation is what inspires a person and directs their behavior. Behavior is a function of personal and environmental variables. The personal variables include both traits that are stable (representing long-lasting dispositions) and states that are temporary (representing short spurts of arousal). The environmental variables are external incentives/disincentives. When these variables foster behavior leading to the same goals, the person is considered highly motivated. To help achieve this in the Korean ESL context, motivation concepts are matched with analysis offered by Korean students. By addressing student voice, patterns of motivation can be identified and addressed as part of the foundation for curriculum development.