EXPLORING STUDENTS' ATTITUDES IN LEARNING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN EIGHTH GRADE STUDENTS OF SMP NEGERI 13 KOTA BENGKULU

This study investigated students' attitudes towards learning English as a foreign
language among eighth grade students of SMP Negeri 13 Kota Bengkulu. The aim
of this study was to determine students' positive or negative attitudes towards
learning English. Mixed methodology was used in this study to uncover students'
attitudes. 60 participants were asked to answer a questionnaire and 15 students
were selected to be interviewed to support the responses to the questionnaire
given. Regarding the three aspects of attitude: behavioral, cognitive and
emotional, most students showed positive attitudes towards learning English as a
foreign language. The results of data analysis show that students are motivated
and have positive attitudes in the three aspects of attitude. In the sense that their
attitudes seem to influence their understanding, their participation, and their
interest in the perceived benefits of learning English, as well as their strategies to
improve their abilities.
Keywords: Students’ Attitudes, Learning English, EFL (English as a Foreign
Language)