Perceptions of Motivation for Teaching in Higher Education: A Study in Portugal

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: Faculty Perceptions in Higher Education

Abstract

Motivation for teaching is key in the establishment and further development of high-quality higher education. This paper reports a study on the validation of a questionnaire assessing intrinsic motivation for teaching in higher education, developed in Flanders (Belgium), for the Portuguese population. The sample consisted of 616 academics working in public higher education institutions in Portugal. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted and internal consistency of items analyzed. The results show that the original dimensionality of the construct is confirmed in the Portuguese sample. Thus, motivation for teaching in the Portuguese context, like in the Flemish one, can be explained by the following factors: personal efficacy, interest in the task, and effort dedicated to teaching responsibilities.

Authors

• Maria Alfredo Moreira, Minho University

• Leandro Almeida, University of Minho

• Gerda J. Visser-Wijnveen, ICLON, Leiden Univertsity

• Suzana Nunes Caldeira, University of the Azores

• Sara Medeiros Soares, University of the Azores