ACHIEVEMENT MOTIVATION, GOALS AND CONSEQUENCES IN SINGAPOREAN STUDENTS

Abstract

This study tested Deci's (1971) model which proposed that achievement motivations (Mastery, Work, Competitiveness and Challenge) would influence the achievement goals (Performance Goal, PG and Leaming Goal, LG) being pursued, which in turn, would influence achievement strivings strivings (Social-oriented and Individual-oriented achievement motivation, SOAM; IOAM), and examined the relationships of these achievement dimensions with academic Interest and Persistence, and Worry and Emotionality. 192 Year 2 Junior College students participated in this study. Results from LISREL analyses partially supported Harackiewicz's model when Mastery, Work predicted LG, and LG, in turn predicted outcomes. Results supported Deci's model. Combining both models provided a better fit over Harackiewicz's model, and showed that SOAM and IOAM predicted achievement-related outcomes. This implies that SOAM and IOAM needs to be examined to better understand the mechanisms of Asian achievement process. The marginally positive correlation between PG and LG indicates no conflict between PG and LG in the Singapore academic setting.