Motivation Matters: A Cross-National Study of Autonomy and Teacher Satisfaction

• In Event: Teaching in the Digital Age: Technology, Environment, and Equity

Abstract

This cross-national study explores the mediating role of intrinsic motivation in the relationship between teacher autonomy and job satisfaction, using data from 2,717 teachers across China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the United States. Grounded in Self-Determination Theory, the study applies mediation analysis to assess whether autonomy influences satisfaction directly and indirectly via motivation. Results indicate that autonomy significantly predicts job satisfaction across all countries, with intrinsic motivation accounting for a meaningful portion of this effect. While the strength of mediation varies by context, findings consistently affirm that fostering autonomy enhances motivation and satisfaction. These insights offer practical implications for educational leaders seeking to improve teacher retention and performance by cultivating autonomy-supportive environments.

Authors

• Robert E. Shockley, Florida Atlantic University

• Mounir Bourkiza, Florida Atlantic University

• Michael DeDonno, Florida Atlantic University

• Siaw Yan Li, University of Malaya

• Jiang Na

• Joko Sriyanto, Yogyakarta State University