The The Impact of Theme-Based Language Instruction on Language Learning Effectiveness and Motivation: A Case Study of “Spanish and Beauty Pageant Course”

Abstract

This research aims to explore how theme-based language instruction, an innovative approach for foreign language teaching in recent years, affects learners’ attitude and motivation and to prove its effectiveness for building L2 proficiency. “Spanish and Beauty Pageant Course” is the object of the study in order to find out how intrinsic motivation exercises are, since beauty pageants have a solid fanbase in Thailand while in many Spanish speaking countries beauty contests are also a social phenomenon. Altogether 22 students of this course participated in the research, and they were requested to fill in an online questionnaire which served as a tool to collect information concerning learners’ attitude and motivation and, moreover, their final exam results were analyzed to examine their level of Spanish proficiency by the end of the course. According to the evidence collected, the Spanish instruction based on beauty pageant theme created an impressive impact on students’ attitude and motivation. The questionnaire results showed that, after studying this course, all students admitted to having a positive or very positive attitude towards the Spanish language, Hispanic cultures and Hispanic people. The most motivating factors were the instructor, teaching methods, classroom activities and class atmosphere respectively. Surprisingly, this approach did create a remarkable sense of belonging and empathy between the learners. With regards to Spanish proficiency, the final exam results demonstrated that, overall, the students were able to reach a satisfying level in every skill, especially the reading skill. However, the listening skill presented most difficulties and required special attention.