Academic Motivation in Post-Secondary Students

Abstract

Using a social cognitive theory framework, we examined the effects of career outcome expectations (COE) and aspiration to enter a science, technology or math (STM) career on post-secondary academic motivation.  Data were collected online from a sample of 380 post-secondary students in Canada and the United States. Analysis of covariance revealed high COE and STM students to be more intrinsically and extrinsically motivated in terms of their academics. Overall, the results suggested that expanding students' expectations of a successful career outcome and promoting interest in STM occupations may benefit their academic motivation. Limitations and implications are discussed.
Keywords: Post-secondary education; academic motivation; career development; occupational aspirations