Formation of university students’ positive motivation for foreign languages learning

Abstract

The proposed research is aimed at identifying teaching methods that motivate students to study foreign languages. It is noted that the prerequisites for success in learning foreign languages are positive motivation, deep interest, perseverance in performing tasks. It is emphasized that motivation is based on needs, professional interests, ideals, values, moral beliefs of students, as well as due to the creation of the European Higher Education Area. It should be taken into account that the nature of foreign language professional competence is related to personal motivation, which can provide optimal results in solving professional and personal problems. Accordingly, when learning foreign languages, motivation to learn becomes important, which gradually ensures the formation of a motive that turns into action – the professional activity. Research shows that in order to form a support and maintain learning motivation, it is necessary that the learning process meets the goals set primarily by students. In the course of the reseach it was generalized that the organization of purposeful formation of university students’ positive motivation for foreign languages learning is influenced by external and internal factors that can be provided through the implementation of innovative forms, methods and technologies of higher education. It is also affirmed that interactive teaching methods are the most effective in forming students’ positive motivation. Thus, the use of these methods of teaching and education contributes to awareness of the importance of a foreign language knowledge, responsibility for the effectiveness of joint foreign language activities in the group, the formation of self-esteem in future foreign language professional situations. It should be emphasized that needs and interests are an important source of motivation. Based on professional and proven experience, the authors argue that a prerequisite for the formation of positive motivation is the optimal balance of knowledge and skills needed for learning a foreign language.