This book traces the motivational dynamics embedded within lifelong foreign language learning trajectories, examining the factors which generate and sustain motivation throughout a learner's life. Embracing a complexity approach, it views motivation as a long-term individual process that evolves along a narrative continuum, developing over the course of life, personal experiences, choices and events. This narrative inquiry delves into the captivating and unique experiences of three exceptionally motivated older adult learners who have embarked on a lifelong foreign language journey and maintained their momentum after 60. It will be relevant to researchers interested in third age language acquisition, L2 motivation and the impact of additional language learning on wellbeing. It also offers pedagogical guidance to optimise language education quality through better appreciation and anticipation of the autonomous third age learning experience.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
We live in a rapidly aging society but, surprisingly, research has paid very little heed to third age language learners. This book is therefore a very timely contribution written in mesmerizing prose. Highly recommended for researchers interested in the evolution of self-constructs across the life span, and even for the general readership willing to learn how to remain motivated in later years while getting to know the individual factors that may influence the process of motivation. * David Lasagabaster, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain * This book makes a vital contribution to the emerging field of L2 motivation in later life, offering compelling evidence of how language learning can play a crucial role during retirement. Through inspiring individual stories and a dynamic, multi-faceted perspective, it is an essential read for both practitioners and scholars. * Elsa Tragant, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain * This is a book that at once both impresses and inspires. The focus on older adults' experiences brings fresh perspectives to our understandings of lifelong (language) learning. Darnault's voice is clear and engaging, introducing novel findings supported by cutting edge and thoughtfully applied methodological approaches. This is a triumphant debut monograph that will be of interest to students, teachers and researchers alike. * Christine Muir, University of Nottingham, UK * Readers will find much new and engaging in [the author's] positive approach to ageing. Her lens encompasses diverse topics in positive psychology such as well-being, optimism, future-mindedness, hope and resilience and this narrative recognises individual needs and aspirations as important components of flourishing in later life [...] I found this book absorbing and it will resonate with different readers keen to engage in its academic content and viewpoints, providing new knowledge and perspective. Her final words also show the author's passion, "Yes, indeed, some trees bloom in winter.... Just as the spirit of lifelong learning blossoms in the hearts of those who dare to embrace it". Very much recommended. * Jonathan Doherty, U3A Specialist Adviser for Ageing and Lifelong Learning *
Reihe
Sprache
Verlagsort
Zielgruppe
Für höhere Schule und Studium
Maße
Höhe: 240 mm
Breite: 161 mm
Dicke: 21 mm
Gewicht
ISBN-13
978-1-80041-952-0 (9781800419520)
DOI
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Schweitzer Klassifikation
Berenice Darnault is a Lecturer and Associate Professor of TESOL at the University of Southern Brittany, France, where she teaches business communication and international studies in English. Her research interests lie in the psychology of language learning and include motivation, third age language learning and narrative inquiry.
Tables and Figures
Acronyms and Abbreviations
Acknowledgements
Preface
Introduction - The Motivational Discourse in Third Age: A Longitudinal Perspective
Part 1: Ecological Insights into Third-Age Additional Language Learning Experience
Chapter 1. Existing Research on Older Adult Language Learners
Chapter 2. Lifelong Motivational Persistence: An Ecological Perspective
Part 2: Lifelong Additional Language Learning Motivation: Challenges of a Complexity Framework
Chapter 3. Holistic Views on Lifelong Motivation in Language Learning
Chapter 4. Directed Motivational Currents in Lifelong Language Learners
Part 3: The Power of Storytelling in Third-Age L2 Research
Chapter 5. Narrative Inquiry in Third-Age Additional Language Learning Motivation
Chapter 6. The Narrative Paradigm: Insights into a Blended Methods Approach
Part 4: Tales of Resilience
Chapter 7. Georges
Chapter 8. Josette
Chapter 9. Patricia
Part 5: A Collective (Hi)Story of Lifelong Motivation
Chapter 10. Historical Motivational Mapping: Tracing Lifelong Dynamics
Chapter 11. Conditions for Sustained Motivation: Components of the Self-Directed Motivational Reservoir
Conclusions
Epilogue
Appendices
References
Index