Seminar: Emotions and L2 learning

Emotions and L2 learning
 

Professor Meihua Liu
Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures
Tsinghua University
 

Date:      March 27, 2025 (Thursday)
Time:      14:30 – 16:00
Venue:    Room 401-402, Meng Wah Complex, HKU
Chair:     Professor Chin-Hsi Lin
  

Abstract:
Effects of emotions in L2 (second/foreign language) learning have been well discussed, which can affect learners’ cognitive and attentional processes, decrease or increase their interest, confidence, motivation and engagement, and so on. Research on L2 learning emotions has been flourishing, especially since the broaden-and-build theory of positive psychology and the control-value theory of achievement emotions were introduced to second language acquisitions. Researchers have become interested in more emotions other than anxiety, including foreign language enjoyment, foreign language learning boredom, and grit. This talk will first briefly discuss theories on emotions, and then provide a general overview of empirical research on most often studied L2 learning emotions: foreign language anxiety, foreign language enjoyment and foreign language classroom boredom. Based on the review, the talk will discuss potentials for future research.
 

About the speaker:
Meihua Liu is professor of Applied Linguistics at the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, Tsinghua University, China. Her research interests mainly include L2 teaching and learning, individual differences (e.g., reticence and anxiety), second language writing, and international education. She has published widely on these issues in journals of applied linguistics, education and psychology, including International Journal of Applied Linguistics, Computers & Education, System, the Modern Language Journal, Scientific Reports, and the Asian Pacific Education Researcher.

~ All are welcome ~
~ This seminar is sponsored by Tin Ka Ping Visiting Fellowship Scheme ~ 
For enquiries, please contact the Office of Research, Faculty of Education at hkchow@hku.hk