Resumen de L2 self-discrepancy, motivation, and study abroad (SA) contexts: a case study of semester-long international exchange students
In many theorizations of L2 motivation, the discrepancy between actual and possible L2 selves has been closely associated with motivation generation, and L2 selves are considered as highly interactive with the context. This article centres on the interplay between L2 self-discrepancy, motivation, and context by following two Chinese university students during their semester-abroad programme in Canada. Triangulating data from questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and guided emails administered before, during, and after their sojourn, this article examined the L2 self-discrepancy and motivational trajectories of the participants in relation to their study abroad (SA) environment. The findings show that the participants’ motivational development was closely connected to their perceptions of the fit between their ideal L2 selves and contexts. The cross-case analysis also suggests that SA students may exercise their agency to shape their immediate contexts and facilitate the accomplishment of their ideal L2 selves. Drawing on the findings, suggestions are offered for both home and host institutions to better underpin the L2 engagement and enhancement of international exchange students.
