Computer conferencing—does it motivate EFL students?

This paper explores the results obtained from using a computer network for real-time synchronous discussion in a course for students of English as a Foreign Language. The authors found that computer conferencing (CC) had noticeable effects on their students' motivation for language learning. Three reasons for motivation emerged from the students' responses to a survey: that CC provides an opportunity for ‘real’ communication and community, that it improves personal confidence, and that it encourages students to overcome writing apprehension. The article also reflects on the relationship these motives have with the intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation distinction in education generally, and with the traditional instrumental vs integrative classification of motivation in second language learning. It suggests that these motives may be able to contribute towards the support of newer classifications that have recently been proposed.