STUDENTS' MOTIVATION AND ATTITUDE IN STUDYING ENGLISH FOR FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN RURAL AREA

This study analyzes students’ motivation and attitudes in learning English as a
foreign language at SMPN 1 Sawit Seberang, a school in a rural area of Langkat
Regency, Indonesia. Using Dörnyei’s L2 Motivational Self System framework, this
study combines quantitative and qualitative methods, involving 30 8th grade students
through questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The results show relatively high
motivation related to Ideal L2 Self (53.3% see the importance of English for the
future), a moderating influence of Ought-to L2 Self (40% feel family support), and
significant variation in L2 Learning Experience (56.6% acknowledge the positive
impact of teacher teaching methods). Students’ attitudes are generally positive
towards the value of English (60% see the potential for better job opportunities), but
show a lack of self-confidence (only 30% feel confident). This study highlights the
importance of contextual factors, especially learning experiences at school, in
shaping students’ motivation and attitudes. These findings provide valuable insights
for the development of more effective teaching strategies and educational policies in
English learning in rural Indonesia.