Envisioning Second Language Future Selves

What drives individuals to master a second language? At the heart of this journey lies the concept of the “self”—an evolving sense of identity that shapes how learners view their future and influences their motivation to learn. This book explores the dynamic relationship between self-concept and language learning motivation, drawing from modern psychological theories and innovative educational models Central to this exploration is the groundbreaking “L2 Motivational Self System,” a model that integrates the learner's ideal self, their sense of duty, and real-world learning experiences. As learners imagine who they could become by mastering a second language, their aspirations and fears propel them forward, creating a powerful source of motivation. This future-focused vision, known as the "Ideal L2 Self," plays a pivotal role in determining language learning success. By bridging the gap between one's present and future selves, this model not only explains how motivation is generated but also offers practical strategies for fostering long-term commitment to language learning. Through in-depth discussion of self-discrepancy theories, the role of future self-guides, and motivational techniques that enhance language learning, this book provides actionable insights for researchers, educators and learners. It shows how the cultivation of a vivid learning vision can inspire motivation, offering practical applications that can be integrated into the classroom or self-study. For educators, researchers, and language learners alike, this book serves as an essential guide to understanding and harnessing the power of self-concept as a driving force in second language acquisition.