Abstract

This study surveyed the English language learning motivation of 384 Saudi military cadets. The researcher applied structural equation modelling to analyse how a set of motivational factors interact in shaping the motivation to learn English of this under-researched context. The study found that the language learning effort was determined by the students’ attitudes towards the language learning process as well as their Ought-to L2 Self. However, the Ideal L2 Self contributed to the language learning effort indirectly with the mediation of the students’ attitudes towards the language learning. The influence of the students’ parents was salient as the parental encouragement contributed to the students’ Ought-to L2 self as well as their language learning attitudes. Finally, the students’ perception of the benefit of learning English for religious purposes (religious interest) contributed to the enjoyment derived from the process of language learning, which in turn impact the effort they invest in their language learning. 

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