Validating a Motivation Theory Model among Iranian Kurdish and Azerbaijani EFL Learners Using Structural Equation Modeling Approach

This study intended to develop a model of motivating factors to learn English among Iranian Kurdish and Azerbaijani EFL learners. For this purpose, at first, an endeavor was made to discover motivation factors and validate a model. Therefore, in the qualitative phase, a semi-structured interview was done with 18 Azerbaijani interviewees (in the Azerbaijan University of Tabriz) and 18 Kurdish ones (in the Kurdistan University of Sanandaj) and 6 participants of focus group from each ethnic group to brainstorm their ideas. After discovering seven EFL motivating factors with 29 categories, a questionnaire was made which reflected the factors. In the quantitative phase, the 80-item questionnaire underwent an exploratory factor analysis to test validity, and after the confirmation of its validity and reliability through a pilot study with 234 participants, the questionnaire was distributed among 320 EFL participants. To corroborate the validity of the proposed model, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis was used with LISREL 8.8. Eventually, confirmatory factor analysis was run and the model of motivating factors was developed with three factors related more to Azerbaijani students leading to integrative motivation and four for Kurdish students making instrumental motivation. The emerged model is helpful for policymakers of education and teachers caring about better English instruction.