This paper was presented at the 2008 Engineering Conference - Innovation Good Practice and Research in Engineering Education.
This paper examines the motivation of a group of students in the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering at the University of Portsmouth. An expected outcome of the study is the enhancement of the student experience through improving both the study environment and the goals that are set so that each contributes in a positive way to every student’s motivation.
The study attempts to measure ‘intrinsic’ and ‘extrinsic’ motivation of students by employing qualitative datagathering methods including questionnaires and semistructured interviews. Historic data has also been consulted to supply additional evidence for instance the personal statement and the grades and subjects obtained prior to entry which help identify primary influences in students’ motivation.
Whilst most students may be expected to demonstrate both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation this limited study indicates that many at the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering at the University of Portsmouth operate more intrinsically. If confirmed by more extensive research such a finding suggests that students might benefit from more loosely specified assignments; giving them freedom to choose from their laboratory work and assignments aspects in which they have a greater personal interest. This hypothesis is supported by comments received at interview with students.
