Techniques to motivate EFL learners in the language classroom at different educational levels in Cuenca

Abstract

Motivation is an important factor for success in foreign language learning. This descriptive research focuses on exploring the motivational techniques used in the English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom at different educational levels in Cuenca, Ecuador. The selected participants were 4 English teachers from different educational levels. Observations and interviews were conducted to collect data for this mixed-method research. The four teachers' classes were observed for two weeks. Afterward, the teachers participated in an interview. The results demonstrated that a number of motivational techniques employed by the teachers in the classroom are applied more often than others. Among these techniques, we have: using technology, creating a pleasant classroom environment, giving instructions in a clear and loud voice, and encouraging student participation. Additionally, this study provided valuable information about the importance of motivational techniques in teaching English as a foreign language and other details that influence the frequency of the use of such techniques.