The Emergence of Flow in Foreign Language Classrooms

Conference: The European Conference on Language Learning (ECLL2021)
Title: The Emergence of Flow in Foreign Language Classrooms
Stream: Psychology of the learner
Presentation Type: Live-Stream Presentation
Authors:
Jean-Marc Dewaele, Birkbeck, University of London, United Kingdom
Peter MacIntyre, Cape Breton University, Canada

Abstract:

The present study adopted a mixed-methods approach using a convergent parallel design to focus on the role that positive and negative emotions have in the Foreign Language (FL) classroom on the ontogenesis of positive flow. Participants were 1044 beginning to advanced FL learners from around the world. They provided quantitative and qualitative feedback through closed and open questions on FL enjoyment (FLE), classroom anxiety (FLCA) and experience of flow via an on-line questionnaire (Dewaele & MacIntyre, 2014). A multiple regression analysis revealed that FLE was a significant predictor of frequency of flow experience while FLCA had no effect. Further statistical analyses revealed that flow experiences are typically self-centered, infrequent and short-lived at the start of the FL learning journey and when the perceived social standing in the group is low. They become an increasingly shared experience, more frequent, stronger and more sustained as learners reach a more advanced level in their FL. What starts as an occasional individual spark can turn into a true fire that extends to other group members. The findings are illustrated by participants’ observations of flow states in the FL classroom characterised by complete involvement in an individual or collective task, spontaneous joy and bonding with classmates, intense focus and joy, loss of sense of time and place.

---

Conference Comments & Feedback

Place a comment using your LinkedIn profile


Share this Presentation