Foreign language anxiety is a primary predictor of lower academic achievement
In short: Researchers who surveyed 332 foreign language learners worldwide found that while various emotions play a role in the classroom, only anxiety significantly hindered academic success. The study examined how enjoyment, anxiety, and boredom are shaped by student attitudes and teacher behaviors.
The research used structural equation modeling to map out these emotional connections. It discovered that while specific teacher behaviors—like the frequency of using the target language—can boost a student's enjoyment, they do not necessarily impact their levels of boredom or anxiety.
A key limitation of this study is its reliance on an online questionnaire, which captures self-reported data rather than direct behavioral observations.
Why it matters: Understanding that anxiety—rather than just boredom or lack of enjoyment—is the primary emotional barrier to learning a new language.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-research-foreign-language-anxiety-is-a-primary-predictor-of-lower-aca.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Language families · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
