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English Learning Motivation at University: EMI vs. Mother-Tongue Programs

Many universities offer both degrees taught in English and degrees taught in the local language. Although both programs include English classes, students’ patterns of English learning motivation likely differ depending on language use in other classes. Understanding these motivational patterns can help teachers and course designers motivate students’ learning English during university. This original research study in Macao, China, compared first-year students in English-medium (EMI) and Chinese-medium (CMI) programs at one institution. Students’ motivation and enjoyment using English were measured three times over the year. Results show that for students in both EMI and CMI programs, enjoyment using English increased, but English learning motivation decreased, particularly for CMI students. EMI students’ demotivation was partly related to negative attitudes toward the work of studying English or discovering their English ability was sufficient to cope. Implications are given for teachers and course designers in EMI and mother-tongue programs.