Learner Identity in Foreign Language Education: Research Nexus and Implications

Language is one of the most apparent symbols that indicate an individual’s identity. However, the connection between identity and language learning seem to be overlooked somehow. In fact, a number of studies have revealed that identity could have impacts on language learning motivations, particularly in bilingual or multilingual society (e.g., Guo & Gu in Int J Biling Educ Biling, 2016; Sung in J Asian Pac Commun, 26:175–192, 2016). A positive sense of identity obtained through English learning may motivate EFL learners to practice their agencies, which could subsequently facilitate the efficiency and effectiveness of learning. This chapter reviews how learner identity determines their language learning effectiveness and outcomes.