Testing Multiple Goals Theory in an Asian Context: Filipino University Students' Motivation and Academic Achievement

Abstract

Achievement goals research has focused on the importance of mastery relative to performance goals, but the multiple goals perspective asserts that performance goals also lead to positive outcomes and that learners adopt multiple goals in adaptive ways. However, this multiple-goals perspective has not been extensively studied in Asian students. The study examined the achievement goals, intrinsic motivation, effort, persistence, and achievement of 900 Filipino university students in an algebra class. Cluster analysis revealed 4 groups of students who adopted (a) predominantly performance goals, (b) predominantly mastery goals, (c) multiple goals, and (d) neither goal. Consistent with a multiple goals perspective, the results indicate that endorsement of multiple goals was associated with additive improvements in achievement and motivation.

Keywords:

• Achievement
• achievement goals
• Asian students
• effort
• intrinsic motivation
• multiple goals perspective
• persistence
• Philippines
• university students

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by a faculty development grant and a dissertation grant awarded to Elmer D. Dela Rosa by the Commission on Higher Education, Philippines.