Abstract
This study explored L2 motivation of Thai older adults under the L2 Motivational Self System framework and contributed to the severe lack of L2 motivation research pertaining to this age group, with the aim to better promote lifelong education, improve pedagogical strategies and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning in later adulthood, and ultimately enhance the quality of life of older adults in Thailand. The participants in this study were 77 Thai older adults aged 40 and above who responded to an online motivational factors questionnaire. The results suggested that Thai older adults’ general attitudes toward EFL learning were positive and appeared to be the strongest L2 motivational drive and predictor of L2 learning efforts. On the contrary, increasing age seemed to link with a decline in the learning effort level. Additionally, Thai older adults who were either males or identified as low-proficiency in English would be more inclined to experience higher levels of English anxiety. The findings highlighted the importance of maintaining positive attitudes to EFL learning and awareness of its benefits among older adults and incorporating appropriate anxiety reduction approaches for older adult learners of specific genders and proficiency levels.
Keywords: L2 motivation, older adult learners, second language learning, Older adult learners, Second language learning
How to Cite:
Pundit, N., (2025) “Toward the Promotion of Lifelong Learning: A Study of Thai Older Adults’ Motivation for Learning English as a Foreign Language ”, Essex Student Journal 16(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.5526/esj.423
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