The Importance and Usefulness of English to Pupils in the Schools of The Saarland, Germany

Fuxman, Michael (2025) The Importance and Usefulness of English to Pupils in the Schools of The Saarland, Germany. Masters thesis, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

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Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing German students! attitudes toward learning English in the multilingual region of the Saarland. Using a qualitative, mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 64 students across two age groups (10–12 and 16–18) through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The research focuses on learners' motivation, confidence, engagement with English outside the classroom, and perceptions of its usefulness. Participants were drawn from two schools: a Berufsbildungszentrum (A career-oriented school) (ages 16–18) and a Gemeinschaftsschule (A comprehensive school) (ages 10–12). Findings indicate that while both age groups regard English as valuable for future careers and global communication, their sources of motivation differ. Younger students were more influenced by digital media and gamified contexts, whereas older learners expressed stronger instrumental goals and practical applications of the language. Across both groups, intrinsic motivation, media exposure and social interaction played key roles in fostering engagement. The data were analysed thematically using coding tables and visual summaries. The study draws on Gardner's Social Educational Model (SEM), Dörnyei's L2 Motivational Self System (L2MSS), Norton’s investment theory and Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST) to interpret learners' attitudes and behaviours. The findings offer insights for language educators and policymakers, highlighting the importance of developmentally appropriate, identity sensitive approaches to English education in multilingual European contexts.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Subjects:	L Education > LC Special aspects of education
Divisions:	Theses and Dissertations > Masters Dissertations
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.82227/repository.uwtsd.ac.uk.00004081
Depositing User:	Victoria Hankinson
Date Deposited:	08 Jan 2026 15:16
Last Modified:	08 Jan 2026 15:16
URI:	https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/4081

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