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How do growth mindsets contribute to academic engagement in L2 classes? The mediating and moderating roles of the L2 motivational self system

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Abstract

Language mindsets and second language motivational self system (L2MSS) are two important motivational frameworks in understanding second language (L2) engagement. We argue that whether and how mindsets predict academic engagement can be explained by L2MSS components (ideal L2 self, ought-to L2 self, and learning experience). Using a multi-stage cluster sampling method, we collected survey data from 384 English-as-a-Foreign-Language (EFL) learners in Iran. Results of structural equation modelling showed that growth mindsets predicted academic engagement via ideal L2 self, but not via ought-to L2 self. Moreover, the association between mindsets and academic engagement was moderated by learning experience. Mindsets positively predicted engagement only for learners who had more favourable learning experiences. We discussed theoretical implications for integrating L2MSS and mindsets theories to better understand learners’ engagement, and highlighted that promoting growth mindsets should be combined with positive learning experiences.

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Notes

  1. Additionally, Exploratory Structural Equation Modelling (ESEM) was used to check the factorial validity of the engagement scale (see Online Supplement). The comparison of CFA, bifactor CFA, ESEM, and the bifactor ESEM models provided sufficient details about the multidimensionality of the academic engagement scale, accounting for the specific constructs (i.e., agentic, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive) and indicating the validity and reliability of the engagement scale. However, since the goal of this study is to test engagement as the outcome, we did not have rationales or a specific hypothesis that mindsets would differently predict dimensions of engagement.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to express their sincere appreciation to the participants who actively participated in this study and Isabella Schopper for her editorial assistance.

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This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

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Correspondence to S. Yahya Hejazi.

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Sadoughi, M., Hejazi, S.Y. & Lou, N.M. How do growth mindsets contribute to academic engagement in L2 classes? The mediating and moderating roles of the L2 motivational self system. Soc Psychol Educ 26, 241–261 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11218-022-09744-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11218-022-09744-0

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