Abstract: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the online learning of foreign languages at higher education level has represented a way to adapt to the restrictions imposed worldwide. The aim of the present article is to analyse university students’ behaviours, emotions and perceptions associated to online foreign language learning during the pandemic and their correlates by using a mixed approach. The research used the Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE) scale and tools developed by the authors, focusing on task value, self-perceived foreign language proficiency, stressors and responses in online foreign language learning during the pandemic. Some of the results, such as the negative association between anxiety and FLE, are consistent with those revealed in studies conducted in normal times. Other results are novel, such as the protective role of retrospective enjoyment in trying times or the higher level of enjoyment with lower-achieving students. Reference is made to students’ preferences for certain online resources during the pandemic (e.g., preference for PowerPoint presentations) and to their opinions regarding the use of entirely or partially online foreign language teaching in the post-COVID period. The quantitative results are fostered by the respondents’ voices in the qualitative research. The consequences of these results are discussed with respect to the teacher-student relationship in the online environment and to the implications for sustainable online foreign language learning.

Abstract: Learning a second/foreign language (L2) is a long process and L2 learners certainly will encounter setbacks and discouragements during this process. However, their reactions to these failures might be different based on their perceptions of L2 learning ability and their subsequent effort put into L2 learning. Based on this, the present study aimed at exploring two underresearched constructs within the field of applied linguistics, namely grit (continuous effort and interest for long-term goals) and language mindset (individuals’ perceptions of their language learning ability). We had five main aims: to examine (a) the factor structure of grit, (b) the factor structure of language mindset, (c) whether there are gender differences in grit or language mindset, (d) the relationships between language mindset and grittiness, and (e) the roles of grit and language mindset as predictors of L2 achievement. To address these aims, a total number of 1,178 university students who were taking general English courses took part in our study and completed the questionnaires. Results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the two-factor structure for both grit and language mindset fit the data better than the single-factor structure. We also tested several structural equation models and found that a growth language mindset weakly, but positively, predicted one component of grit (perseverance of effort, or POE), but not the other (consistency of interest, or COI). A fixed language mindset did not predict POE, but did negatively predict COI. Finally, only growth language mindset was a weak, positive predictor of L2 achievement. At the end, theoretical and pedagogical implications regarding the role of grit and language mindset in L2 learning are presented.

Abstract: Intrinsic value is related to intrinsic motivation and influences learners’ decisions to begin, continue, and return to learning tasks. In the context of a fully online foreign language English course, we used structural equation modeling to explore the motivation for asynchronous collaborative writing practice, motivation for video-synchronous speaking practice, course satisfaction, and the mediating effect course satisfaction has on behavioral intentions to use language learning technology. Cross-sectional survey results (n = 186) revealed that students who were motivated by asynchronous online collaborative writing were more likely to enjoy online learning in general when compared to students who reported motivation for video-synchronous online speaking practice. Moreover, the relationship between motivation for collaborative writing and behavioral intentions to use language learning technology was mediated by course satisfaction. A follow-up open-ended survey (n = 65) revealed that students held positive views for online second language writing and speaking practice overall but for distinctly different reasons. The findings are discussed in terms of their theoretical implications for modeling e-learning approaches with significance for promoting instructional training effectiveness and transformative learning.

Abstract: Dewaele and MacIntyre. [2016. ‘Foreign language enjoyment and foreign language classroom anxiety: The right and left feet of the language learner.’ In Positive psychology in SLA, edited by T. Grege...

Abstract: The Foreign Language Enjoyment Scale (FLES) was originally introduced by Dewaele and MacIntyre (2014). We used a data set with n = 1,603 learners of foreign languages (FL) to develop and validate the Short Form of the Foreign Language Enjoyment Scale (S-FLES). The data was split into two groups and we used the first sample to develop the short-form measure. A three-factor hierarchical model of FLE was uncovered, with FLE as a higher order factor and Teacher Appreciation, Personal Enjoyment, and Social Enjoyment as three lower order factors. We selected three items for each of the three lower order factors of the S-FLES. The proposed nine-item short form of FLE was validated in the second sample, and the fit statistics for the factor structure indicated close fit. Further evidence was found to support the internal consistency, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the S-FLES. The S-FLES provides a valid and reliable short-form measure of FLE, which can easily be included in any battery of assessments examining individual differences in language learning.

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the link between Foreign Language Enjoyment, Foreign Language Anxiety and Willingness to Communicate in Denisa and Anda, two high school learners of English as a For...

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Extended Reality (XR) have been employed in several foreign language education applications to increase the availability of experiential learning methods akin to in...

Abstract: Immersion is a proven method of learning a foreign language and using Virtual Reality to achieve that immersion has high potential educational benefits However, there are no recent systematic reviews that combine both foreign language education and immersive Virtual Reality This systematic review aims to identify features, educational methods, technologies, and gaps of immersive virtual reality for foreign and second language education PRISMA method was followed to carry out the systematic review From the analysis of the results, two main conclusions were drawn Firstly, the relation between immersive Virtual Reality and foreign language learning is quite positive, particularly when compared with conventional pedagogical practices Not only that, the connection between immersive Virtual Reality and the user’s motivation and satisfaction is also quite positive Lastly, limitations such as the low sample of studies and gaps in the literature are addressed, and directions for future work and the area’s progress are pointed out

Abstract: This study examined the development of students’ language skills in a flipped English foreign language course designed with self-regulated learning strategies. The study was conducted with a quasi-experimental design. While the experimental group received the course through flipped classroom model designed with self-regulated learning strategies, control group did not use self-regulated learning strategies in the flipped classroom model. The results indicated that self-regulated learning strategies positively affected the development of foreign language skills in the flipped classroom model. A significant difference in favor of the group working with the platform including self-regulated learning strategies outperformed in speaking, reading, writing, and grammar test scores. However, no significant difference in the listening test results was found.

Abstract: Due to the spread of Covid-19, universities had to move their courses online abruptly. This paper explores its impact on 510 European tertiary-level English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners’ classroom emotions and analyses possible links to their trait emotional intelligence (TEI) and learner autonomy. Statistical analyses of data gathered with a web survey revealed that students rated their ‘in-person’ classes as significantly more enjoyable and also more anxiety-provoking. Overall, levels of foreign language enjoyment (FLE) and foreign language classroom anxiety (FLCA) were positively correlated between both contexts. The moderate negative correlation between FLE and FLCA in ‘in-person’ classes disappeared in emergency remotely taught classes. TEI and learner autonomy were positively correlated, and both were positively linked to FLE and negatively to FLCA in both contexts. This means that more autonomous, emotionally intelligent students tend to be able to enjoy the FL class more – even more so under particularly challenging circumstances. Overall, it seems that learners not being physically present in classrooms weakens all emotions, and breaks the relationship between them. One possible explanation is that disembodied classes have less emotional resonance.

Abstract: This paper use qualitative analysis with statistics to propose recommendations for teaching methodology to students at all levels from undergraduate schools to doctoral and even associate professors. For undergraduate students, we need to equip students with foundation knowledge to enter business work and work environment, knowledge including politics, economic or technology, language (English, Chinese, Japanese, etc.) and sports. For post graduate level, we need to train students both English and computer skills to produce qualified reports for management and write economic, marketing and management reports. For doctoral level, we need to train the how to use English to communicate, write and produce very good articles to publish in famous journals such as ISI, Scopus, ABDC high rank, etc. For all three levels (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral) students need to be trained and equipped with foreign language, esp. English using skill in job, business and scientific research and life. The limitation of this study is that it needs to collect data and then expand for other emerging markets as well

Abstract: In recent years, the question of using new information technologies in the education system has been increasingly raised. These are not only new technical means but also new forms and methods of teaching, a new approach to the learning process. The purpose of this study consisted in developing a program for teaching future foreign language teachers using digital technologies. In this study, a descriptive and analytical methods were used. Analysis of specialised literature on research topics as well as of training programs for future teachers of a foreign language was conducted. A system of classes for future teachers of a foreign language for a semester in the subject “English” and a number of recommendations for creating a course and conducting classes using digital technologies has been developed. A pilot study that showed the effectiveness of these techniques was conducted. It was found that thanks to the authors’ approach the students can complete the tasks assigned to them more quickly and learn how to correctly apply new tools in their work.

Abstract: The present longitudinal study investigated the changes of FLE (foreign language enjoyment) and FLA (foreign language anxiety) over time in the foreign language classroom and their relationship wit...

Abstract: Virtual reality has shown to have great potential as an educational tool when it comes to new learning methods. With the growth and dissemination of this technology, there is a massive opportunity for teachers to add this technology to their methods of teaching a second/foreign language, since students keep showing a growing interest in new technologies. This systematic review of empirical research aims at understanding whether the use of gaming strategies in virtual reality is beneficial for the learning of a second/foreign language or not. Results show that more than half of the articles proved that virtual reality technologies with gaming strategies can be used to learn a foreign language. It was also found that “learning” was the most evaluated dependent variable among the chosen records, augmented reality was the leading technology used, primary education and lower secondary was the most researched school stages, and the most used language to evaluate the use of gamified technology was by far the English language. Given the lack of directed investigation, it is recommended to use these technologies to support second language learning and not entirely replace traditional approaches. A research agenda is also proposed by the authors.

Abstract: The relationship between grit and success has been investigated extensively in various contexts. However, the association between grit and language performance, especially in a Chinese high school context, remains underexplored. This study investigates grit, the positive emotion of enjoyment, the negative emotion of anxiety, foreign language performance, and how enjoyment and anxiety mediate the relationship between grit and foreign language performance. A questionnaire was administered to 697 Chinese high school students, followed by a language test after 2 weeks. The results showed that more than half of the students had a moderate-high level of grit and foreign language enjoyment and that nearly half of them experienced a low-moderate level of foreign language anxiety. It was also found that grit, foreign language enjoyment, and foreign language performance were positively correlated with each other, and all three variables were negatively correlated with anxiety. Both foreign language enjoyment and foreign language anxiety mediated the relationship between grit and foreign language performance to a significant degree, and the mediating effect of foreign language anxiety was stronger than that of foreign language enjoyment.

Abstract: How does foreign language influence consumer dishonesty? We propose a self-diagnosticity theory arguing that compared to one’s native language, using a foreign language makes lying appear less self-diagnostic, thereby increasing or decreasing lying depending on which aspect of the self is salient. In situations where lying reflects an undesirable, dishonest self, using a foreign language increases lying. In contrast, in situations where lying primarily reflects a desirable (e.g., competent or compassionate) self, using a foreign language decreases lying. Ten studies, spanning various languages, consumer contexts, and experimental paradigms, support the theory. The studies establish that the effect of language on lying jointly depends on the self-diagnosticity of lying and on whether lying is diagnostic of a positive or a negative aspect of the self. The findings highlight self-diagnosticity as a valuable lens to understand the behavior of bilingual consumers and offer practical guidance for addressing dishonesty in the marketplace.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between Chinese English as a foreign language (EFL) students’ learning motivation and learning outcomes in a blended learning environment. A questionnaire was administered to 960 EFL students, and 10 of them participated in an interview. Following a series of analyses on the data collected through the questionnaire, consisting of exploratory factor analysis, reliability analysis, descriptive analysis, and correlation analysis, a structural relationship model that integrated learning motivation and learning outcomes was developed and tested. The results reveal that both intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation have a positive relationship with learning outcomes within a blended learning environment, both of which are conducive to improving students’ English linguistic competence and facilitating their psychological development of English learning. Moreover, intrinsic motivation is more important than extrinsic motivation. In intrinsic motivation, intrinsic interest in English and the intrinsic goal of understanding English culture are the two most important motives. Based on these results, implications and recommendations for future research are provided. Implications for practice or policy: Foreign language educators should consider the stimulation of students' learning motivation as the main task in blended courses. Foreign language educators should pay more attention to the development of students’ intrinsic motivation than extrinsic motivation to produce more favourable learning outcomes in blended courses. Foreign language educators should focus on developing students’ intrinsic interest in foreign language and culture in terms of the cultivation of students’ intrinsic motivation in blended courses.

Abstract: This empirical study serves two purposes. The first purpose is to validate a newly developed instrument, the Metacognitive Academic Writing Strategies Questionnaire (MAWSQ), which represents the multifaceted structure of metacognition in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) academic writing setting. The second purpose is to delineate the predictive effects of different metacognitive strategies on EFL academic writing performance. Data were collected from 664 students at a university in mainland China. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) provided evidence for the fit for two hypothesized models, i.e., an eight-factor correlated model and a one-factor second-order model. Model comparisons documented that the one-factor second-order model was a better model, through which metacognition functions as a higher order construct that can account for the correlations of the eight metacognitive strategies, pertaining to declarative knowledge, procedural knowledge, conditional knowledge, planning, monitoring, evaluating, information management, and debugging strategies. Results also provided evidence for the significant predicting effects of the eight strategies on EFL academic writing performance. The empirical evidence supports the transfer of metacognition theory from educational psychology to interpreting EFL academic writing.

Abstract: Language learners’ mindsets–their beliefs about whether language is a fixed aptitude that is immutable or a malleable capacity that can be developed–are associated with achievement goals, language-use anxiety, reappraisals of challenges, and persistence. This study integrates these mindset-related constructs to identify mindset-system profiles among foreign language learners. A latent profile analysis of 234 university students in foreign language courses revealed three distinct profiles. The fixed (21.8%) and growth (20.5%) profiles showed distinct and contrasting patterns of goals, reappraisals, anxiety, and persistence. However, most learners (57.7%) endorsed a mixed profile. Although mindsets alone did not predict grades, students in the growth profile were consistently most engaged and achieved the highest grades, suggesting that mindsets function as a system, in concert with related factors. This person-centered approach enhances our understanding of the complexity and functions of the mindset system, as well as the motivation of learners with mixed mindsets.

Abstract: Scholarly attention to the feeling of enjoyment experienced in second language acquisition (SLA) has sharply increased in the past 5 years owing to its positive effect on facilitating academic outcomes as well as promoting language learners' well-being. This sequential mixed methods study aims to examine the interplay between Foreign language enjoyment (FLE) and learner engagement (LE) as well as their combined effects on participants' EFL achievement and absenteeism. To this end, we administrated a questionnaire containing the adapted FLE Scale and the four-aspect engagement inventory among 707 Chinese university students and a semi-structured interview among 28 of them. Statistical analysis revealed that FLE was highly and positively correlated with LE, and the causal relationship between the two constructs was reciprocal. Furthermore, both FLE and LE had low correlations with participants' academic achievements, but no significant correlation was found between FLE or LE and absenteeism. However, a higher level of FLE-social was associated with a lower level of absenteeism. Finally, no gender differences were found either in the level FLE or in that of LE. The thematic analysis indicated that FLE was subject substantially to teacher-related variables and the second most significant attractor of FLE was FLE-self. Analysis of the trends of LE indicated that Chinese EFL learners preferred to engage themselves in their English study more emotionally, behaviorally, and cognitively than agentically. Pedagogical implications of the findings for EFL practitioners are also discussed, and suggestions for future research are offered.

Abstract: This study investigates the potential impact of translanguaging pedagogy on EFL learners’ four language skills, as well as their perceptions towards its in-class implementation as a pedagogy. The s...

Abstract: Despite Saudi Arabia's substantial investment in English and Science education to enhance future generations' global competitiveness, listening skills challenge many Saudi learners of English as a ...

Abstract: With the spread of COVID-19 worldwide, teaching and learning have occurred remotely and on digital platforms. An abrupt transition to online education, however, has posited unprecedented challenges for educators, who have been forced to adjust to remote learning with little to no time to prepare. Focusing on the case of an English language program in South Korea, this case study examines the challenges and strategies that were emerging in the crisis-prompted online language learning and teaching context. In particular, this case study focuses on investigating what types of strategies English as-a foreign language (EFL) instructors with little prior experience teaching online used to create a sustainable and authentic technology-mediated language learning environment, and how they motivated language learners to actively participate in sustainable language development and use. Findings provide educators and administrators who have little to no experience teaching online with practical suggestions and ideas to consider. They can use these concepts to adapt their lesson plans to online platforms and design and deliver high-quality lessons that ensure students feel connected to their learning process and have sustainable language learning experiences.