Learning English as a Foreign Language as a Deaf Pupil in Sweden : An Investigation of Motivation

Abstract: Motivation is an important factor when it comes to learning a language, including the Deaf and hard of hearing pupils. The purpose of this investigation is to investigate whether Deaf and hard of hearing pupils in Sweden are motivated to learn a foreign language, i.e. English, and whether the motivation is an intrinsic or extrinsic kind. The aim of this study is to contribute with extended knowledge and an in-depth understanding of motivation to learn a foreign language among Deaf and hard of hearing pupils, since no research of this kind has been conducted in Sweden, so far. The investigation was conducted through semi-structured interviews in Swedish Sign language about the motivation to learn a foreign language, and the findings showed that many of the pupils are motivated to learn English. The factors that affect their motivation are studying or working abroad, communicating with people from other countries and understanding information when travelling around the world. Another significant finding was a wish to learn an International Sign language in the school as a complement to the subject English to be eligible to communicate with Deaf people from other countries.