Does Faculty Research Motivation Predict Success Over Time? Longitudinal Analyses of Levels, Measures, and Temporal Ordering

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 10:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Faculty Research Development (Table 4)

Abstract

Motivation is fundamental to university faculty members’ research productivity; however, longitudinal tests of motivation measures and their predictive validity of success over time are rare. This study assessed 160 USA STEM faculty with three annual online surveys. Measurement invariance tests revealed that faculty research motivation can be reliably and validly measured over time. Research motivation levels remain steady over three years, even when comparing levels before and after COVID-19; alternatively, pre vs. post-COVID faculty reported significantly less competence, relatedness, success in research, job satisfaction, and more stress and turnover intentions. Correlations consistently supported the self-determination theory motivation framework. Cross-lagged structural analyses will test temporal ordering of motivation predicting success over time, allowing researchers and university administrators to design better interventions.

Author

• Robert H. Stupnisky, University of North Dakota