How FL motivation influences the child's learning process: the case of a preschool in Venice

Abstract

The focus of my thesis is the encounter between the child and the motivation to learn new languages. Through a general overview of the brain functions, in particular those of the children, I studied in depth their huge learning capabilities since infancy and their constant evolutionary window opened to the world. They can encounter some obstacles and one of the most important is the affective filter which has been discussed in several theories that proved how this system operates in our brain since childhood. One of the main characters is motivation which can be weak and less constant in adult age, but if it is created and stimulated from infancy it can be a great and strong driving force in language learning. My case study examines and analyses a group of 5 children attending a private preschool which offers English teaching. So, I studied their different behaviours and reactions to the activities proposed to measure their motivational involvement. What I discovered is the importance of the family and teachers in a child’s life because the creation of a stimulating environment is productive and, in this case, motivational. My research can contribute to reflect about creating more preschools like this not only private schools but also public ones because they represent a great opportunity to help children discover themselves, supporting their potential. In addition, it can aid people who want to better exploit children’s potential through innovative approaches and methods.