Examining the Internet-Based Free Talk in College English Classes from the Motivation Perspective

Abstract

Abstract：Free Talk is recognized as an effective approach to teaching college English in China to improve students' English speaking. With the popularity of Internet around the world, the Internetbased Free Talk demonstrates more advantages in motivating students to engage in English learning. In this paper, the author compares the main features of the Internet-based Free Talk with the five components of the MUSIC Model of Motivation synthesized from current research and theory in the field of motivation. Furthermore, the author illustrates how Internet facilitates Free Talk through online writing service system and online QQ community. The comparison reveals that the success of the Internet-based Free Talk is consistent with the key motivation principles. This paper indicates that professors and researchers in higher education could design and evaluate their instruction according to the components of the MUSIC model of motivation.