The current research begins to fill

The current research begins to fill this gap by examining the learners’ perspective with the aim of answering the question: when conceptualized ecologically, how does the learners’ context impact informal language learning, self-instruction, and learners’ motivation? The context was ecologically conceptualized in order to capture the broadest influences on learners’ experiences with language study. The data was gathered through Skype interviews with informal learners of the ANTL Macedonian. The significance of the research lies not only in the glimpse it offers into the world of informal learners of ANTLs, but also because it suggests and exemplifies a cross-disciplinary theoretical approach for research with other learners of LCTLs which takes into consideration the impact of the learners’ entire ecological system on their learning choices and progress. Before describing the study and results, it is necessary to define some terminology and briefly explain the theories on which the research is predicated.