Demotivating Factors in Learning English among Middle School Pupils in Rural Areas

Abstract

This study aims at investigating the factors of demotivation which impede the process of English language learning among the Algerian middle school pupils in rural areas, the case study in Jijel rural schools. The research tools used were a questionnaire and a semi structured interview, the questionnaire was administrated to 272 pupils from three middle schools in Jijel rural areas,Erraguene, BoucifOuled Asker and Djimla. The pupils were chosen randomly from all levels. In addition, the semi-structured interview was conducted with 04 teachers of English from the same middle schools. It is hypothesized that there are many factors that demotivate middle school pupils of rural areas to learn English language. The findings of the research showed that the lack of intrinsic motivation among middle school pupils in rural areas is considered as a strong source of demotivation. Learning content and materials and low scores in the exams also cause demotivation among these pupils. Inadequate school facilities and teachers’ competence and style are moderate sources of demotivation.