Motivational strategies in EFL classrooms and their feasibility in Iraqi context

Abstract

Teachers are seen as the major determinant sources of motivation for language learners. Moreover, teachers are expected to enhance learners’ motivation for better language learning since the positive effect of this relationship on the students’ achievement has been proved in many studies. Thus, the effect of motivation is crucial to students’ achievements because even people with the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will perform poorly if they are not motivated to devote their time and effort to work (Harris in Milapo, 2001:29). The purpose of the study is to explore researches and theories concerning EFL/ESL learners’ motivation, the role of teachers in students’ motivation; how they can initiate and maintain it. Moreover, this study aims to identify strategies obtained from the literature on motivation and suggest motivational techniques appropriate to be used by teachers in Iraq.