Brazilian Academic Consultant, Maiza Fatureto, takes a look at the topic of ‘vision’ and how this keeps both learners and teachers motivated.
For us to explore this topic and its relationship with the learning journey, the first thing to focus on is the word ‘vision’. Firstly, the definition of ‘vision’ is the ability to see clearly with your eyes; understanding what you see to become a more visually literate person. In order to be an efficient learner, and also an efficient person in life, you have to be able to do this quickly, comfortably, accurately, critically, and for extended periods of time. However, only having sharp visual skills using your eyes won’t pave the way for success in L2 learning.
The vision inside your head
According to the Cambridge Advanced Learners Dictionary, ‘vision’ can also be defined as: “an experience in which you see things that do not exist physically, when your mind is affected powerfully by something”. This is the vision inside your head. Maybe we should reflect a little about this. Maybe you’re thinking it’s getting too abstract? This concept of vision has been used in areas such as management, psychology and neurolinguistics, helping people achieve success. It is believed that every great achievement in human history was always created twice: first in the mind of the visionary and then in the physical realm.
Take these words from Walt Disney:
“If you can visualize it, if you can dream it, there’s some way to do it.”
What other more successful example do we have? And there must be lots of others too. The fact is, the vision in your head can shed light on a potential broader and more exciting L2 teaching and learning landscape.
Motivating learners through vision
So, how can we motivate L2 learners through creating a better “vision”? According to Zoltan Dörnyei, it’s important to develop a motivational self-esteem system. This means learners can work on their beliefs and develop a vision for their success: a vision for what they want to accomplish. It actually motivates them to see it, touch it, smell it, and hear it in a way that they experience the whole situation before making it reality.
You can build this vision through providing regular tasters of desired future states, apply guided imagery and guided narratives. You should also ensure ample exposure to role models in class. It seems that teachers’ vision for change and improvement is of paramount importance too! Keeping values such as resilience, a positive attitude and a good sense of self-worth is essential to achieve this vision.
If you’re interested in learning more about motivation, try this article from Hayo Reinders on motivation and the 21st century learner.