Lessons from Exceptional Language Learners Who Have Achieved Nativelike Proficiency: Motivation, Cognition and Identity

This book explores the autobiographical stories of language learners who achieve native-like proficiency, offering insights into their pathways to success. It examines factors such as motivational vision, international posture, identity, endurance, and musical ability, and investigates whether these successes can be repeated by others. It is of interest to language teachers, researchers, and learners interested in language learning motivation, identity, and narrative inquiry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

Some language learners manage to excel against all odds, even without obvious heritage links or extensive exposure to the L2 environment before adulthood. This captivating book delves into the autobiographical accounts of these remarkable individuals, providing a window into their experiences and offering valuable insights into their pathways to success. Through a comprehensive analysis, the authors explore a diverse range of potentially relevant topics, including motivational vision, international posture, identity issues, endurance, and even musical ability, among others. They examine whether these achievements can be replicated by others and offer valuable insights for language teachers interested in fostering learner motivation and understanding the factors that contribute to high-level ultimate attainment. Additionally, this book will be of immense interest to researchers working in the fields of language learner psychology, particularly in areas related to language learning motivation, identity, and narrative inquiry.

Introduction:
Language learning is a complex and challenging process that requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. While some learners may have inherent advantages, such as a strong cultural background or extensive exposure to the L2 environment, others may face significant obstacles on their path to proficiency. This book seeks to explore the stories of language learners who have triumphed against all odds, despite not having obvious heritage links or spending extended periods of time in the L2 environment pre-adulthood.

Motivational Vision:
One of the key factors that contributes to language learner success is a strong motivational vision. These learners have a clear understanding of their goals and a burning desire to achieve them. They are driven by a passion for the language and a commitment to improving their skills. Motivational vision can help learners overcome obstacles and stay focused on their language learning journey.

International Posture:
Another important factor is the international posture of language learners. These learners are open to new experiences, cultures, and ways of thinking. They are willing to take risks and step out of their comfort zones to learn and communicate with others. International posture can help learners develop a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the language and its cultural context.

Identity Issues:
Language learners often face identity issues as they navigate the complexities of learning a new language and culture. They may struggle with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and self-doubt. However, language learners who are able to embrace their identity and celebrate their differences can develop a stronger sense of self-confidence and resilience.

Endurance:
Language learning is a long and arduous journey that requires perseverance and resilience. Language learners who are able to endure the ups and downs of the learning process and stay motivated even when faced with setbacks are more likely to succeed. Endurance can help learners build resilience and perseverance, which are essential skills for achieving their language learning goals.

Musical Ability:
While musical ability is not a prerequisite for language learning success, some language learners have found that their musical background has helped them in their language learning journey. Musical ability can enhance cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and processing speed, which are important for language learning. Additionally, musical ability can provide a sense of joy and fulfillment that can help learners stay motivated and engaged in their language learning.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, language learners who triumph against all odds do so through a combination of factors, including a strong motivational vision, an international posture, the ability to embrace their identity, endurance, and even musical ability. These learners have a clear understanding of their goals and a burning desire to achieve them. By exploring their autobiographical stories, this book provides valuable insights into the pathways to success for language learners, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800412446