Date of Award
Spring 2011
Project Type
Dissertation
Program or Major
Education
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
First Advisor
Michael Middleton
Abstract
This study explored stability in achievement goals and learning behaviors within a two-part learning project. Based on previous literature exploring stability in achievement goal orientation, it was hypothesized that students' goals and self-efficacy would show evidence of change within and between the two task sessions. This was tested through a series of self-report surveys. Literature on the relationship between achievement goals and reading strategies showed that mastery oriented students used more reading strategies than performance oriented students. This was tested by imposing a performance oriented measure on one half of the participants. Data was analyzed with quantitative methods. Findings from this study supported only the first hypothesis. Goals and self-efficacy showed evidence of instability within and between the two sessions. However, students in both the performance and mastery conditions used similar learning behaviors. This suggests learning projects are an important area on which motivation research should continue to focus.
Recommended Citation
Koritz, Kirsten Nerissa, "Linking goals to outcomes: Exploring students' achievement goals, strategy use, and standards of success for learning" (2011). Doctoral Dissertations. 558.
https://scholars.unh.edu/dissertation/558