The self-determination theory focuses on the intrinsic and extrinsic aspects of motivation.
Noels and colleagues explored this theory in the language learning context and developed the Language Learning Orientations Scale which categorizes a person’s motivational orientation as either intrinsic, extrinsic, or a motivated based on a continuum of self-determination.
In this line of research it was found that in the language learning classroom, teachers that were autonomy supportive and non-controlling promoted intrinsic and self-determined orientations of motivation in students.