MacIntyre et al.'s willingness-to-communicate (WTC) model as a framework linking pronunciation and affective variables¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The article uses the WTC model (MacIntyre et al., 1998) as its organizing framework, which takes into account the many variables present when initiating a communicative exchange in the L2. The model distinguishes situational and enduring variables, with L2 self-confidence comprising a cognitive evaluation of L2 abilities and anxiety; sufficient motivation and positive self-confidence produce state communicative self-confidence, leading to L2 use. Accessing pronunciation is treated as a resulting behavior of WTC and the decision to engage in communication with another speaker. The study's self-assessment categories (perceived performance, confidence, anxiety, desire to improve) map onto WTC model variables.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Learners must have sufficient self-confidence to achieve WTC and actually use the L2 for communication

Constraints¶

• The original model did not overtly address pronunciation; the article extends it by treating pronunciation access as a resulting behavior of WTC

Target Learners¶

• L2 learners in communicative language teaching classrooms

Target Learning Objectives¶

• understanding psychological and linguistic factors leading to L2 use and pronunciation skill application

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

• Communicative-cognitive framework for teaching pronunciation: description and analysis, listening discrimination, controlled practice, guided practice, communicative practice
• MacIntyre et al.'s (1998) heuristic pyramid model of willingness to communicate in L2
• MacIntyre et al.'s situational model of willingness to communicate in L2
• Willingness to Communicate in a Second Language — the canonical page for this theory

Examples¶

• VoiceThread interpersonal audio discussion activities for L2 pronunciation practice

Key Sources¶

• Lepore, C. E. (2014). Influencing Students' Pronunciation and Willingness to Communicate through Interpersonal Audio Discussions. Dimension 2014. http://www.voicethread.com