Instrumental motivation

Definition

Instrumental motivation refers to the drive to learn a language for practical purposes, such as achieving specific goals or obtaining certain rewards. This type of motivation often involves using the language as a tool to advance in one's career, improve educational opportunities, or fulfill other utilitarian needs. Instrumental motivation contrasts with integrative motivation, where the desire to learn a language is more about connecting with the culture or community of that language.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Instrumental motivation is often linked to career advancement, where individuals learn a second language to improve job prospects or performance.
2. Students pursuing higher education may be instrumentally motivated to learn a language for admission requirements or academic success.
3. This type of motivation can lead to focused learning strategies, as learners often prioritize practical vocabulary and skills relevant to their goals.
4. Instrumental motivation can vary in intensity based on individual aspirations and contextual factors, such as job market demands.
5. While instrumental motivation can drive effective language acquisition, it may sometimes lack the emotional engagement found in integrative motivation.

Review Questions

• How does instrumental motivation influence the methods and strategies learners use in acquiring a second language?
  • Instrumental motivation can lead learners to adopt more focused and pragmatic approaches to language acquisition. Since their goals are often tied to specific outcomes, such as job opportunities or academic success, they may prioritize learning practical vocabulary and grammar over cultural aspects. This often results in learners using strategies like targeted practice, online courses geared toward specific skills, or engaging with materials directly related to their field of interest.
• Compare and contrast instrumental motivation with integrative motivation in the context of language learning.
  • Instrumental motivation is primarily concerned with using a language as a means to achieve specific practical goals, such as improving career opportunities or meeting educational requirements. In contrast, integrative motivation focuses on the emotional desire to connect with speakers of the language and immerse oneself in their culture. While instrumental learners may view the language merely as a tool, integrative learners often seek deeper connections and experiences that enrich their understanding of the culture behind the language.
• Evaluate the impact of societal and economic factors on instrumental motivation among language learners.
  • Societal and economic factors play a significant role in shaping instrumental motivation among language learners. For instance, globalization and increasing interconnectedness have heightened the demand for multilingual employees, motivating individuals to learn languages for career advancement. Economic trends, such as shifts in labor markets or emerging industries requiring bilingual skills, further influence how learners perceive the utility of learning a second language. As a result, individuals may adjust their learning priorities based on these external pressures and opportunities.

Related terms

integrative motivation: The desire to learn a language in order to connect with its speakers and engage with their culture.

language proficiency:

The ability to use a language effectively and accurately in various contexts, often measured through assessments.

extrinsic motivation: A form of motivation driven by external rewards or outcomes, such as grades, recognition, or job promotions.