Profiles of Domain- and Course-Specific Motivation in Computer Science

• In Event: How Motivation Shapes STEM Outcomes in Postsecondary Contexts and Beyond

Abstract

This study explores domain- and course-specific motivational profiles in undergraduate computer science (CS) courses, focusing on expectancy, values, and belonging. Using latent profile analysis, we identified four domain-level profiles and five course-level profiles, with the profiles representing different combinations of positive motivation and cost. We examined how these profiles evolved during the semester, finding via latent transition analysis that domain-specific motivations appear to be more stable over time. Additionally, gender differences in profile membership showed women and non-men often in higher cost profiles compared to men, and there was more variability in mean grades across course profiles than across CS domain profiles. These findings enhance our understanding of how combinations of motivational beliefs can influence student engagement and performance.

Authors

• Hye Rin Lee, University of Georgia

• Sanford R. Student, University of Delaware

• Teomara Rutherford, University of Delaware

• Rebecca J. Collie, UNSW Sydney

• Austin Cory Bart, University of Delaware