The Role of Motivation and Gender in English Language Learning for Saudi Students

By Dr. Ahdab Saaty

There are several factors that influence the process of learning English, such as motivation and gender. This study highlights the importance of motivation and gender in English language learning. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.

Qualitative data were gathered through a self-motivation questionnaire and a self-assessment form completed by fifteen Saudi male and fifteen Saudi female students. All participants were studying English in the United States to pursue their undergraduate education. The data were analyzed correlatively using quantitative descriptive statistics.

The findings revealed interesting results: female participants demonstrated higher motivation toward learning English, and the study also showed that male and female learners had different perspectives on English language learning. The study’s conclusions, implications, and recommendations provide a foundation for future research on English language learners’ motivation in Saudi Arabia and similar contexts, aiming to identify differences in students’ attitudes.