The Mediating Role of Peer Motivational Climate Between Mastery Goal Structure and Social Goal Orientations

• In Event: Poster Session 17
  In Poster Session: Motivation in Education SIG Poster Session 2

Abstract

This research explored whether peer motivational climate mediates the relationship between teachers’ emphasis on mastery goals and students’ social goal orientations. Study 1 used a cross-sectional design (N = 1,155; 57.2% boys; mean age = 13.34). Study 2 followed the students over the school year (N = 355; 62% girls; mean age = 14.38). Results were consistent across the multilevel path-analysis (study 1) and the half-longitudinal mediation analysis (study 2). Teacher emphasis on mastery goals enhanced positive peer motivational climate, which in turn predicted development goals. Teacher emphasis on mastery goals decreased negative peer motivational climate, which in turn predicted demonstration-approach and avoidance goals. Teachers should emphasize self-improvement and deep learning standards in classrooms to promote adaptive social motivation.

Authors

• Nir Madjar, Bar Ilan University

• Melissa Karakus, School District of Philadelphia