Does Gender Matter? Motivation and Learning EFL: A Saudi Case Study

Motivation is one of the most determining factors for acquisition English as a Foreign Language (EFL) with gender key factor. This quantitative research focuses on gender, motivation, and EFL learning in Saudi Arabia. An adapted version Attitude Questionnaire (MAQ) was used March 2021 at two Eastern Province public secondary schools. Data were collected from 169 students (aged 16–18). The final sample frame (N=100) comprised quota 50 males females. Descriptive analytics affirmed that overall motivation to learn quite high (female M = 4.06; male 3.79). Extrinsic instrumental prevailed intrinsic integrative highest female respondents. Gendered differences not significant p< .005 (Asymp. Sig. .772). Recommendations include (a) address contradictory results (level/type influence) (b) mediating effect attitude (c) focused efforts ensure education.