The role of intrinsic motivation in the academic pursuits of nontraditional students

Abstract

This article examines the role of intrinsic motivation in the academic pursuits of nontraditional students. The Academic Motivational Scale (AMS) was administered to 35 undergraduate students, 6 males and 29 females, aged 25 to 49 to explore their motivational orientations in choosing to attend college. The results of the study show that respondents endorsed more items of intrinsic motivation than extrinsic motivation or amotivation. Hence, the desire to demonstrate competence, a need for a sense of self determination, and the pleasure and satisfaction derived from the college experience played a greater role in nontraditional students’ academic pursuits than the external rewards such as career advancement. This information is important for college administrators in developing programs that cater to the needs of nontraditional students and facilitate degree attainment.

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