INVESTIGATING STUDENT MOTIVATIONS AND BARRIERS TO ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING AT HONG DUC UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This study explores the factors that motivate and demotivate undergraduate students in learning English at Hong Duc University. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with ten students from various majors. Thematic analysis revealed five motivating factors (career goals, cultural interest, teacher support, supportive environment, and social influence) and five demotivating ones (academic pressure, language skill problems, negative feedback, exam stress, and lack of speaking practice). The findings further indicated that increasing speaking activities, diversifying teaching methods, and promoting learner autonomy are essential for enhancing students’ motivation in learning English.