Understanding EFL students’ motivation for participating in extracurricular contests: Insights from China

Abstract

This study aims to provide an understanding of English as foreign language (EFL) university students’ perception and experience of participating in extracurricular English contests in China. In this study, the extrinsic factors and intrinsic beliefs that contribute to university students’ motivation to participate in extracurricular English contests during their study at university were examined. Forty-nine students who have participated in extracurricular English contests were investigated in questionnaire, eight of whom were invited for in-depth semi-structured interviews. Research findings show that instructors’ support is the highest external factor that motivated students to participate in extracurricular English contests. On the other hand, rewards (monetary or honorary) constituted a very important factor, and school’s support and parent’s/friends’ encouragement are other important factors that contribute to their willingness to participate. Additionally, the research also revealed the crucial importance of their strong intrinsic beliefs.