Motivation Studies Utilizing Self Determination Theory in Chemistry and Allied Health Classes

Self Determination Theory (SDT) addresses three psychological needs in humans, namely autonomy, defined by behaviors that are volitional and self-endorsed; competence, defined as feeling capable of meeting challenges; and relatedness, defined as internalization of practices and values by those with whom they feel connected. SDT is a theory of human motivation, emotion, and development that has been applied in various areas, including education. Research has proved that a greater sense of autonomy is associated with internal motivation, that in turn is associated with better academic outcomes. Our project utilizes SDT in chemistry and allied health classes to measure types of motivation and relative levels of autonomy in students. A greater sense of autonomy is associated with motivation that is more internal than external along the spectrum of intrinsic, identified, introjected, and external motivation. General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Human Anatomy/Physiology students were surveyed and the results from the study are summarized.