Class Size and Levels of Student Motivation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the motivation level of the student and his respective class size. Instructors were selected who taught two sections of the same course; the only difference being class size. Information was collected through questionnaires and interviews with the students and instructors. Linear regression, multiple linear regression, and significance of different tests were employed to analyze the collected data. The analysis showed that class size substantially explained variations in individual and intragroup vertical motivation level, and, to a lesser extent, it also explained variations in intragroup lateral motivation levels. Finally, a relationship was shown to exist between these motivation levels and course evaluations by the students.