Integration of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation in Second Language Acquisition: Magnetism as a Proposed Theory

Abstract

Language learning motivation is significantly shaped by both external and internal factors, influencing the learning process in either a positive or negative manner. These factors span educational and environmental domains, particularly in a demotivated learning society. Thus, this paper introduces a theory that combines intrinsic and extrinsic motivation components, aiming to attract learners to language learning, given its relevance to knowledge across diverse domains and global understanding. This theoretical paper not only offers an overview of previously proposed theories, assessing their merits and limitations but also delves into the conceptualized components of the new theory, Magnetism, along with its foundational principles. Magnetism comprises two intricately linked major components elucidating intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, detailing their interaction, mutual influence, and their role in fostering a positive attitude toward language learning. Additionally, the paper delineates three types of relationships that connect the components and their constructs to each other and to the overall framework.