Students’ Demotivating Factors in Learning English at SMPN 1 Siompu Barat

Abstract

This study aimed at finding out the students' demotivating factors in learning English at SMP Negeri 1 Siompu Barat. This study employed a descriptive qualitative design. In order to find out a clear understanding of this subject matter, the study focused on 19 students who had a score of fewer than 60 and 1 teacher who taught English subjects at SMP Negeri 1 Siompu Barat. The data were collected by using a close-ended questionnaire and interviews. The closed-ended questionnaire employed descriptive statistics to find out the frequencies and percentages, while the interview was analyzed descriptively. Based on the study's findings and discussion of theoretical propositions from the literature, the researcher found that some aspects made students' demotivating factors in learning English at SMP Negeri 1 Siompu Barat. It consisted of, first, internal factors which consisted of some aspects, namely: (1) lack of intrinsic interest aspect, (2) the experience of failure and lack of confidence aspect, and (3) unclear goals aspect. Second, external factors which consisted of some aspects, namely: (1) teaching material, teaching process, and teaching content aspect, (2) significant others aspect, (3) the teaching competence and attitude of teachers aspect, (4) relationship between teachers and students aspect, and (5) teaching facilities and teaching environment aspect. Therefore, teachers should consider these factors to help students increase their interest in learning English in the classroom. Moreover, the students also needed coaching and motivation to improve their motivation and interest in learning English.