Second Language Learning in an Immersion Programme: Factors Influencing Acquisition and Retention

Abstract

This study investigated the relations of a series of attitude, motivation and aptitude variables to the acquisition and retention of French language skills. Subjects were drawn from a sample of 105 students registered in an intensive French language summer training programme in Trois-Pistoles, Quebec, who completed a series of tests at the beginning and end of the course. A factor analysis of data from the 89 students with complete data identified four factors, French Achievement, Integrative Motive, Self-confidence with French, and SelfPerception of French Competence. These results suggested that the roles played by language aptitude and attitudinal/motivational variables differed somewhat, and reflected the socio-cultural conditions under which language learning took place. Investigation of language loss suggested that language use and attitudinal/ motivational characteristics were major factors involved in the retention of second language skills in the period following intensive training.