Using Technology to Increase Students’ Motivation for Learning a Foreign Language

Abstract

Abstract Motivating students in learning a foreign language can be challenging, but educators can help to foster student motivation by employing a series of strategies, such as creating a positive and supportive learning environment and building a positive relationship with the students, using a variety of teaching methods, providing regular feedback and recognition for their efforts, using authentic materials, using technology, setting achievable goals, and providing opportunities for student choice and autonomy by encouraging learning outside the classroom. Employing technology in education is becoming a global trend and the majority of students use it in education in general but also in the process of language acquisition. Most scholars view the use of technology as being supportive for the learning environment and as a crucial element in providing a high-quality education, especially for the new generations of students who were born in this digital era and cannot function without technology. Technology offers students quick access to relevant information, not to mention that it expands their universe of learning. It also allows students to get in contact with a wealth of authentic resources, which can inspire language learners. The paper begins with highlighting the importance of motivation in language acquisition, then it presents the main reasons why we should connect motivation with technology, and finally it reviews some benefits of using technology to enhance language learning.