Factors Affecting Students' Effort and Course Ratings in Veterinary College Courses

• In Event: 64.044 - Measuring Learner Differences and Variability

Abstract

We used the MUSIC Model of Motivation (Jones, 2009, 2018) as a framework to examine the extent to which veterinary students’ course perceptions were related to their course effort and overall course rating. First- and second-year veterinary college students completed a questionnaire that assessed their perceptions of empowerment, usefulness, success, interest, instructor/classmate caring, effort, and overall quality in several courses. We correlated variables and coded open-ended responses to determine that students’ course perceptions were often correlated significantly with their course effort and course ratings. Furthermore, we identified a variety of reasons as to why students put forth effort in their courses. Findings can be used to offer instructional design ideas to faculty who wish to improve students’ motivation and effort.

Authors

• Meghan K. Byrnes, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

• Brett D. Jones, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

• Mia W. Jones