Exploring the Effects of Incorporated Personal Response System (PRS) on Iranian Learners’ Motivation and Participation

This study aimed at investigating the effect of Personal Response System (PRS) on Iranian EFL learners’ motivation and participation. A mixed-methods design was selected to investigate this matter. Participants of this study included 60 Iranian (eighth grade students studying at Bahonar secondary school, Kazeroon in Fars, Iran) and were recruited based on convenience sampling in the form of two intact classes. The researchers implemented the following instruments for the purpose of data collection: Oxford Placement Test (OPT), Motivation Questionnaire, Observation Checklist, and PRS. Both groups of participants took part in 12 English language sessions (each session lasted about 90 minutes) in their high school once a week. The only difference between the two groups was that during the class sessions, the experimental group benefited from PRS. However, in the other group, no use of PRS was made. Data analysis was conducted through descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test and qualitative content analysis of the observed data. The results showed that PRS had a statistically significant effect on the motivation of Ira- nian EFL learners. Moreover, it was indicated that PRS significantly impacted Iranian EFL learners' par- ticipation. Accordingly, EFL teachers are recommended to use this tool in an attempt to increase EFL learners' motivation and participation.