Cambodian University Students’ Perceptions of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation on Academic Performance

Abstract

English is the language that has become a worldwide language to use, and many individuals from other countries utilize it for communication. Motivation to study English has been identified as the most essential factor influencing students' learning outcomes. The current study used a quantitative methodology and aimed to determine the motivation levels of students studying English as a foreign language at a university in Kampong Cham province. Following permission from school principals and English teachers, 152 students completed the questionnaire. The findings indicate that students in the study situation were driven to learn English more intrinsically than extrinsically. There are significant differences in perception between male and female students. The combination of intrinsic and extrinsic motives suggested that students are somewhat motivated to study English. Because the survey study was conducted on a small scale, a larger sample size and other educational institutions around Cambodia should be used in future studies. Qualitative and mixed-method designs are also strongly encouraged.