Motivation in cross-cultural adaptation: The experience of non-Javanese EFL students

Abstract

This study investigated the motivational factors and lived experiences of minority English learners studying in East Java, Indonesia. Specifically, the research aimed at identifying the factors that motivated students from outside Java to learn English. The research employed a mixed-methods approach using a combination of a survey and an interview. The research involved a sample of 32 students from outside Java studying in East Java. Purposive sampling was employed to select three students for interviews. The results indicated that there were intrinsic and extrinsic factors that motivated the students. These intrinsic factors included growth, interest in the English language, and the desire to develop as individuals. Extrinsic factors, on the other hand, included education, career, and exposure to a new academic environment. Linguistic and cultural differences were associated with difficulties that students encountered in daily and academic life. However, these difficulties were not seen as barriers since students were able to show adaptability, resilience, socialization, and personal growth. The study found that the motivation of English minority learners was determined through the interplay of individual ambitions and sociocultural context within which the learning process occurred. These findings emphasized the importance of inclusive and culturally responsive educational environments that recognize students' diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.