Motivations for studying Mandarin in Australian universities: a three-year longitudinal study of factors that affect enrolment

This thesis investigates why university students choose to begin, continue, or discontinue studying Mandarin. It shows how enrolment decisions are influenced by students’ linguistic backgrounds, and how motivations evolve over time. Enjoyment and identity are highlighted, and the thesis shows how motivations combine to provide stronger, interdependent reasons to sustain study over long periods. The findings offer valuable guidance for educational stakeholders in supporting a diverse range of Mandarin learners.