Motivational Patterns of College Students With Disabilities

• In Event: 34.080 - Poster Session 7
  In Poster Session: 34.080-3 - Motivation in Education SIG Poster Session 1

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of students with disabilities who are finding success in college, despite the odds. In this study, 22 students with disabilities were interviewed about their educational trajectories, with a specific focus on what they perceived as supportive or inhibitive of their success. We analyzed the interviews using directed content analysis (Hsieh & Shannon, 2005) to link data to the extant theories, including Expectancy-Value Theory (e.g., Eccles & Wigfield, 2000), goal orientations (e.g. Elliot & McGregor, 2001), and Self-Determination Theory (e.g. Ryan & Deci, 2000). Results indicate motivational patterns may exist across age groups, gender, college majors, and type of disability. For most students, however, the cost of time and a need to belong were particularly salient.

Authors

• Alyssa Emery, Ohio Northern University

• Lynley H. Anderman, The Ohio State University