Demotivation factors in the academic performance of EFL students in the Catholic University of Guayaquil

Abstract

The present study was carried out during the year 2017, with a primary objective of discovering factors that can be considered demotivators among students of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in the Language Centre of the Catholic University of Guayaquil, Ecuador. A clear understanding of these factors led to an action plan to reduce their effects. Unlike the widely researched field of motivation, demotivation is relatively unknown, particularly in relation to its effects on second language acquisition in higher education. The previous studies in demotivation have been conducted in cultures that do not allow a direct transference of results to the Ecuadorian context. This current research included surveys, interviews and round table discussions with students and teaching staff, and the mix of qualitative and quantitative methodology guarantees a more scientific approach, and as a result, more reliable results. In all, eight factors were identified, and through the application of a series of relevant recommendations, it is possible to expect a positive impact on the academic performance of the students, as measured by their final grades.