Date of Award

2-15-2026

Thesis Type

PhD

Document Type

Thesis

Divisions

Institute for Advanced Studies

Institution

Universiti Malaya

Abstract

This study addresses a critical gap in second language acquisition (SLA) research by investigating effects of classroom social climate (CSC) and affective factors on willingness to communicate (WTC) in both non-digital and digital contexts among international Mandarin learners. Although L2 Mandarin is expanding globally, limited research has examined the joining effects of CSC and affective factors on WTC across different learning environments. Employing a cross-sectional correlational dedign based on Self-Determination Theory and Broaden-and-Build Theory, data were collected from 390 L2 Mandarin learners in Shandong province, China, with 360 valid responses. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the relationships among CSC, affective factors (grit, enjoyment, and self-confidence), and WTC. Research indicate that student cohesiveness and self-confidence are the strongest direct predictors of WTC in both non-digital and digital contexts. Task orientation, student cohesiveness, and teacher support partially predict grit, enjoyment, and self-confidence, while selfconfidence and grit significantly mediate the relationship between CSC and WTC across contexts. Additionally, cultural background (Asia vs. non-Asia) significantly moderates the relationship between self-confidence and WTC in both non-digital and digital contexts. These findings extend the application of Self Determination Theory and Broaden-and-build Theory in L2 Mandarin research. Pedagogically, the study suggests enhancing task challenge and learner autonomy, strengthening classroom cohesiveness through collaborative activities, and providing appropriate teacher support to foster learner independence and self-confidence. Instructional design should integrate features of both digital and non-digital contexts while according for learners’ cultural backgrounds, with digital platforms strategically utilized to promote WTC. Overall, the study provides insights for developing socially and psychologically informed L2 Mandarin learning practices.

Initial

khm

Additional Information

Thesis (PhD) – Institute for Advanced Studies, Universiti Malaya, 2026.

Download

Share

COinS