Determinants of Motivation in Learning Japanese as a Foreign Language: A Romanian Case Study
Determinants of Motivation in Learning Japanese as a Foreign Language: A Romanian Case Study

Summary/Abstract: This study explores the motivation of Romanian university students learning Japanese, a less commonly taught language in Eastern Europe. Survey data from the Bucharest University of Economic Studies reveal that cultural and pop-cultural interests – especially anime, manga, and music – serve as primary entry points. Learners also report intrinsic fascination with the language system and, to a lesser extent, instrumental goals such as study abroad or professional advancement. Students adopt hybrid strategies, combining formal courses with self-study, digital tools, and media immersion, while contact with Japanese speakers emerges as a strong motivator. Framed by Gardner’s socio-educational model, Deci and Ryan’s self-determination theory, and Dörnyei’s L2 motivational self system, the findings highlight Japanese in Romania as a “boutique language” pursued mainly for identity and cultural affiliation.

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