Extending the L2 Motivational Self System to the Global EAL Classroom

A growing interest has been witnessed in analysing second language (L2) learner motivation in English as an Additional Language (EAL) instruction around the world. Despite extensive scholarship in this area, revisiting learner motivation is warranted due to some unprecedented developments that impact EAL teaching, such as the prevalence of World Englishes, ethno-linguistically diverse classrooms, and the social as well as situated nature of teaching and learning. The aim of this article is to expand on Dörnyei’s L2 Motivational Self System framework to inform classroom instruction in globally growing EAL teaching. The expansion entails three sociocultural dimensions in the EAL classroom: diversity, inclusivity, and entitlement. This expanded framework can potentially equip EAL educators to better address the demands of a rapidly changing world. Moreover, the framework can also serve as an impetus for learner success in EAL classrooms and the recognition of their individual characteristics, such as self-regulation, autonomy, and agency, which are highly emphasized in postmodern L2 pedagogy.