Course-Level and Project-Level Goal Orientations: Importance of Level of Analysis

• In Event: 72.017 - Studies in Student Motivation: Goals, Efficacy, and Belonging

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate factors which describe goal orientations and the relationship between these factors when measured in the context of a course (course-level goal orientation) and in the context of a problem-based learning (PBL) unit (project-level goal orientation). Participants completed a course-level goal orientation measure at the beginning of the semester. During a PBL unit, participants completed a project-level goal orientation measure. Factor analyses on the goal orientation items suggested a three-factor solution comprised of mastery, outcome, and validation (ability + normative goals) best fit the course-level and project-level goal orientation items. Course-level goal orientation values did differ from project-level values. These results further inform the literature on how level of measurement of goals matters.

Authors

• Cassendra M. Bergstrom, University of Northern Colorado

• Kevin J. Pugh, University of Northern Colorado