Learning a language for its instrumental value, such as studying a subject in English at university, is known as which type of motivation?

• A. Instrumental motivation
• B. Integrative motivation
• C. Intrinsic motivation
• D. Extrinsic motivation

Answer: (A)

Instrumental motivation refers to learning a language for practical, outcome-based reasons. In this case, using English to study a subject at university shows the language as a tool to achieve an academic goal—access to coursework, better opportunities, and future success. It’s not about liking the language or its culture (that would be integrative), nor about enjoying the learning activity itself (intrinsic), nor primarily about external rewards in general (extrinsic). So the language is being learned for its usefulness in reaching a concrete goal, which is the essence of instrumental motivation.