Analysis of the motivation of English as a second language in higher education students in Mexican context

This research looks motivation of students of English as a second language in the Autonomous University of Mexico State, UAEM Texcoco, in the framework of the Doctorate Science in Higher Agricultural Education that is taught at Chapingo Autonomous University, Mexico. This analysis is the foundation of the research and is based on the characteristics of students and adapted to the context of a Mexican University. It takes advantage of techniques such as AMTB (Attitude Motivation Test Battery) of R.C. Gardner, to identify main factors that affect learning of a second language. Results show that students are motivated by activities such as listening to music and conversations, but more so by getting a good job when they graduate. Furthermore, they feel discouraged because they lack adequate study techniques and are affected by negative past experiences.