‘Why am I Learning Spanish at 65?’ A Multiple Case Study of L1 English Senior Learners of Spanish as a Foreign Language

Abstract

Many studies support the idea that language learning is a beneficial activity for senior populations. However, most studies conducted so far deal with the acquisition of English as a second language (L2) and age-related effects on linguistic gains; very few have analysed the acquisition of other languages with a focus on individual differences (IDs). The present study thus aims at exploring the beliefs, motivation and strategies displayed by mother tongue (L1) English senior learners of Spanish as a foreign language (FL). The participants were nine learners of Spanish FL, who were following teacher-led online classes at the time of the study. A mixed-methods approach was followed, consisting of a background questionnaire, a questionnaire that encompassed 36 statements on beliefs, motivation, and strategies, and a semi-structured interview. Results show a variety of positive beliefs linked to learning Spanish, and the use of different types of strategies to build their own learning process and self-motivation.