3rd JALT Joint Tokyo Conference
Exploring and Evolving Classroom Environments
Sunday, 5th October 2008 (9:30 to 5:30)
Toyo Gakuen University, Hongo Campus
http://www.tyg.jp/e/other_information/access_information.html
Presenter:
Kevin Ryan, Tomio Uchida, Keiko Sakui, Neil Cowie, Rob Waring, Alastair Graham-Marr, and Alan Bossaer
Abstract:
"Beyond Motivation: Exploring Group Dynamics, Investment and Resistance in Japanese EFL Students" (co-presented with Keiko Sakui)
Research on individual differences in student motivation often assumes that students are either motivated or not motivated; but this can cover up complex and evolving reasons for student behaviour. The two presenters critically examine student classroom behaviour from alternative perspectives to motivation including group dynamics, investment and resistance. Key patterns of student behaviour, the influence of social and cultural factors in explaining them, and implications for teaching and teacher development are outlined.
About the Presenter:
Neil Cowie teaches English in the Foreign Language Education Centre at Okayama University, Japan. He is especially interested in emotional aspects of studying and teaching foreign languages, and classroom applications of socio-cultural theories of language learning.
Presenters
3rd JALT Joint Tokyo Conference site