ABSTRACT
One fascinating study (#47) looked at creating a sense of purpose for students learning a new foreign language. Some were not given any reason for why they had to learn the material. Others were told they should try hard because it was what was expected of them, whereas others were told there would be a test at the end of the term. Finally, the last group were told the purpose behind it was that it would help their future career. The result? Those who had the explanation as to why learning this new language would be useful to them put in much more effort and were more engaged in the lesson.
