Dynamics of the Motivational Climate in a College Course Over a Semester

• In Event: Complexity Theories in Education SIG Paper Session

Abstract

We investigated the complex, dynamic motivational climate in a college course by (a) documenting weekly patterns of change throughout the semester; (b) examining the relationships between the motivational climate, student motivation, and collective engagement, by conceptualizing the motivational climate as an aggregate of individual perceptions emerging from interactions with course activities. Using weekly student surveys, we analyzed fluctuations in students’ perceptions of empowerment, usefulness, success, interest, caring) and their interactions with engagement. Results revealed significant fluctuations in motivation and effort corresponding to course activities. Peaks in motivation and effort corresponded to key course events, such as exams and mini-lessons, underscoring the importance of investigating motivational climate as a dynamic, interdependent system to enhance course design and sustain student engagement.

Authors

• Jesse L.M. Wilkins, Virginia Tech

• Brett D. Jones, Virginia Tech

• Hande Fenerci, Virginia Tech