Tap into learners' passions and day-to-day interests, and ignite their language learning experience.

In recent decades there has been a great deal of research undertaken on the theme of motivation in language learning and on how it is fundamental to student success. It is widely agreed that language learning should be as relevant and as personal an undertaking as possible. But just how personal are we able to make the experience?

Building upon 20 years of foreign language study, I now embark on my PhD journey. The principal area of exploration for my doctoral study will be researching the role of personal interests in language learning, and specifically, the use of personal-interest-themed digital content as a language learning resource. I hypothesise that aligning the language learning experience with students' personal interests will act as a great source of motivation, and ultimately lead to a boost in student confidence when using the language.

Whether learners' personal interests include sport, fashion, art, cooking, or... travel, combining this with digital content in the language of study can act as an ideal springboard to make language learning not only more meaningful and personalised, but a real part of learners' lives. We all incorporate personal interests into our daily routines, whether we realise it or not. When we scroll through social media channels, certain posts are eye-catching and make us stop, look, like and follow. Specific news and lifestyle articles grab our attention. We are attracted to different series, films, music and podcasts. Particular events and activities will spark our interest too. Whatever these day-to-day things may be, incorporating them into our language learning - either by using them as materials for conscious study, or as a means of simple exposure to the language - means making the target language a part of who we are. But how may we do so? The aim of Travelang is to offer suggestions as to how.

Aside from cat videos, travel themed digital content is hugely popular today, and a large number of people would count travel as one of their main interests, with holidays abroad being much anticipated occasions. With this in mind, Travelang explores the role of Travel Journalism in Language Learning (TJLL). From inspiring blogs to enviable videos showcasing incredible destinations, travel journalism in all its guises offers many language learning possibilities and surprising potential as a resource, be it for classroom use or self-study. When we consider the fact that many learners are drawn in the first instance to a specific language thanks to visits to a country where it is spoken, TJLL takes on an even more relevant role in our language learning journey. What better way to continue to inspire and motivate learners than by showcasing some of the amazing locations they may visit, and where very soon, they may practise their language of study.

Drawing upon years of personal language learning experience and professional knowledge of the worlds of language education, digital content creation and travel journalism, Travelang takes inspiration from the abundance of amazing travel content found across the internet today. From Instagram images to blogs, Reels to TikToks, YouTube videos to series, language learning opportunities can be found across all. With exposure to new vocabulary, expressions and phrases, as well as grammar used in context, the possibilities for TJLL are limitless. Travelang offers suggestions to students and teachers on how to use such content to boost language skills, all the while catering to a personal interest already ingrained in the lives of so many learners.

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Laura