Assessing English Language Teachers’ Awareness and Implementation of Motivational Strategies in EFL Class: Chilalo and Tokuma High Schools in Oromia Region Arsi Zone in Focus, Ethiopia

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to assess the selected Ethiopian high schools English language teachers awareness and implementation of motivational strategies in EFL (English as a Foreign Language) classrooms. Relevant data were collected from two conveniently sampled high schools: Chilalo and Tokkummaa high schools. The tools used to collect data were questionnaire, interview, and observation. 419 students who were enrolled in the aforementioned high schools in 2018 filled out questionnaire. Interview with eleven purposively sampled English language teachers under the study area and classroom observation were also employed. Then the data gathered through questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics in the form percentage and, mean and later interpreted. The data obtained though interview and observation were analyzed qualitatively through emerging trends. The result of this study revealed that, Grade nine English language teachers under the study area have good level of awareness regarding the motivational strategies. They believe that motivational strategies enhance the teachers to motivate students towards the target language and make the teaching-learning environment stimulating. However, although English language teachers under the study area have good awareness concerning the role of motivation in language teaching, the motivational strategies are not being implemented satisfactorily. Thus, English language teachers under the study area should implement motivational strategies in EFL class. Therefore, it would be possible to produce competent professionals and alleviate problems pertaining to teaching-learning environment of all Ethiopian state high schools in general and the selected high schools in particular.