What Is the Purpose of School? Predictors and Consequences of School Relevance (Poster 55)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 8:00 a.m.
  In Poster Session: Student and Parent Perspectives on Motivation and Performance

Abstract

Prior research on school relevance and academic motivation has focused on how students view coursework as pertinent to their goals and careers. However, education's purpose extends beyond academic content and skills; it helps students develop into individuals who contribute positively to society. This study aimed to (1) understand students' views on school relevance and education's purpose, (2) identify factors predicting students’ perceptions of school relevance, and (3) explore the implications for their study strategies. Our findings in a sample of 352 undergraduates demonstrated that students value school for both career-related knowledge and personal development. Additionally, parents and the home environment significantly influence these perceptions. However, school relevance alone does not motivate effective study techniques, highlighting the complexity of academic motivation.

Authors

• Miranda G. Goldstein, University of California - Irvine

• Veronica X. Yan, University of Texas at Austin