Exploring Integrated Motivational Profiles for Seventh- and Ninth-Grade Science Students

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: Motivation Models and Applications

Abstract

Research in motivation is shifting towards integrating theories to better describe students’ motivation. In line with this shift, this study integrated constructs from expectancy-value theory and achievement goal theory to explore motivational profiles for seventh and ninth grade science students. Extant data were used from a survey of seventh graders (n = 374) and ninth graders (n = 352) about their motivation in science. Using latent profile analysis, we identified 3 profiles for seventh graders and 4 profiles for ninth graders (3 of the profiles being similar). Results are discussed in the context of existing literature of previously found motivational profiles, as well as implications for understanding middle and high school students’ motivational development.

Authors

• Vicky Phun, Michigan State University

• Patrick Neil Beymer, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Kimberly Marie Alberts, Michigan State University

• Jennifer A. Schmidt, Michigan State University