Relationships Between Vocabulary Learning Strategies and Motivation － From the Perspective of Self-Determination Theory－

Abstract

This paper examines the relationships between vocabulary learning strategies and motivation in terms of self determination theory. A questionnaire survey was administered to fifth-year students of a technical college (KOSEN). As a result of exploratory factor analysis, three factors were extracted: organization, image, and repetition strategy. An unpaired t-test between the low and high intrinsic motivation groups revealed that the high group scored significantly higher than the low group on the organization strategy. Correlation analysis of vocabulary learning strategies and motivation showed that the organization strategy was positively correlated with intrinsic motivation, but negatively correlated with external regulation. Learners who were highly self-determined used the organization strategy significantly, suggesting that it is an important strategy.