Chapter 7. A review of learner motivation and engagement research in task-based language teaching

Abstract

This chapter presents a systematic review of 54 studies on learner motivation and engagement in the research domain of TBLT. The review focuses on various learner (e.g., first language), contextual (e.g., institution), and task (e.g., task modality) characteristics in previous research. The operationalizations of learner motivation and engagement in TBLT as well as the main themes of the findings in previous studies are investigated. The results of our analysis revealed that learner motivation and engagement research in TBLT have examined a limited scope of learner groups, contexts, and task features. Further, studies have adopted diverse operationalizations to capture the multi-componential nature of the two constructs. In terms of the tools used to investigate learner motivation in TBLT, research has heavily relied on questionnaires and verbal reports. The findings suggest a need for more longitudinal research and more research using a bottom-up approach to examine the two constructs.