03/25/2022
By Lizzie Casanave

The School of Education invites you to attend an Ed.D. Dissertation Defense by Vilma Nasuti Bibeau on “An Exploration of Students’ Motivation to Acquire Second Language Proficiency.”

Date: Friday, April 8, 2022
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: This will be a virtual dissertation defense via Zoom. Those interested in attending should contact Stacy_Szczesiul@uml.edu to request access to the Zoom link.

Dissertation Chair: Stacy Szczesiul, Ed.D, Associate Dean of Online Education, Accreditation & Licensing, Associate Professor, School of Education, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Dissertation Committee:

  • David Troughton, Ed.D., Adjunct Faculty, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Nicole Sherf, D.M.L

Abstract:
For decades the importance of second language learning has been a topic of research, especially the investigation of early language acquisition and its continuity. The significance of learning a second language proves to be fundamental for students’ growth, particularly concerning globalization within a society that is becoming increasingly interconnected. Teaching and learning languages are essential to ensure that students can communicate with the rest of the world and aim to proficiency.

Students’ motivation to second language learning has also been at the center of research, although the research lacks support specifically regarding their motivation to second language proficiency. The role of our schools is to coordinate efforts with all stakeholders to pursue the objectives of the strategic language framework that promotes functional language proficiency. Strengthening and improving language learning in our schools can also enhance and develop a complete sense of diversity by integrating local, regional, and national identities and traditions. In this study, the term “world language” will be primarily used to reflect inclusion and interconnectedness with the world’s people, their language, and culture, although other studies cited may use the word “foreign.”