THE CROSS-CULTURAL VALIDATION OF L2 MOTIVATIONAL SELF-SYSTEM INSTRUMENT IN CHINESE HIGHER VOCATIONAL COLLEGES

Abstract

Although the L2 Motivational Self System (L2MSS) has been previously studied in the Chinese context, the inclusion of its extended structure incorporating the anti-ought-to self has yet to be fully explored. Additionally, the L2MSS has not been applied to assess higher vocational college students’ motivation in business English learning. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a cross-cultural validation of the adjusted L2MSS questionnaire specifically for business English learners in Chinese higher vocational colleges. To examine the nature and structure of the motivation instrument, 288 respondents were conveniently selected to perform EFA, testing the underlying structure of the adjusted business English motivation questionnaire. Subsequently, CFA was conducted with another 288 participants to determine whether the data supported the hypothesized model in this context. Additionally, the study explores the predictive validity of the validated motivation factors concerning students’ learning engagement using the same group of learners from the CFA phase. The results indicated a three-factor motivation model with 15 items, including ideal self (IS), ought-to self (OS) and anti-ought-to self (AS). Moreover, the Ideal Self (IS) and Anti-Ought-to Self (AS) significantly predict learning engagement, with IS being the strongest influence, while the Ought-to Self (OS) plays a minor role when all factors are considered together. This study fills the research gap of business English motivation in higher vocational colleges. Besides, it inspires educators to reform the curriculum, providing qualified talents to upgrade the Chinese industry.