Positive Psychology in Foreign Language Learning and Teaching. The Case of Polish Older Adults

Abstract

This article joins the discussion about the role of positive psychology in foreign language learning. The aim of this paper is to present the results of a quantitative study conducted among a group of Polish older adults (aged 55+). The research goal of the present study was to investigate older people’s subjective feeling of well-being connected to foreign language learning as one of the ways of improving their quality of life. The research used a questionnaire as the research tool, which consisted of a modified version of a questionnaire widely used for testing satisfaction with language courses. The findings of the research clearly show that foreign language learning has an irreplaceable role as one of several non-pharmacological strategies utilised to improve the aging process and promoting positive aging. The results also indicate that seniors’ overall satisfaction and subjective feelings of well-being can be greater when attending foreign language classes at an older age. Foreign language learning, therefore, creates an environment that can enhance the quality of life of older adults.