Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Education
Advisor
Amy Adcock
Abstract
Project-based learning (PBL) is a widely used methodology in the sciences for grades K-12. Forward-thinking instructors are also implementing PBL by creating student-led learning opportunities in other subjects. There is, however, a lack of research on teacher perceptions of PBL as a motivational factor in high school. The purpose of this basic qualitative study was to explore high school language arts teachers’ perceptions of student motivation in a PBL class. Keller’s model of motivation focusing on attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction (ARCS) was the conceptual framework for this study. Nine language arts teachers participated in interviews, which were coded and analyzed to better understand student motivation in a PBL language arts class. Four themes emerged from this study: (a) attention/engagement – students became active participants in a community of believers and took ownership of their learning; (b) relevance – students found personal meaning in assignments and felt they were doing something important, often related to current social issues and local community needs; (c) confidence – students developed a sense of pride in their accomplishments and abilities and enjoyed increased autonomy in the learning experience; and (d) satisfaction - students felt a greater sense of self-worth and were inspired to believe their actions could have a positive impact on the community. Using PBL as a classroom design may promote positive social change through greater student engagement with student-led projects.
Recommended Citation
Merrell Gross, Elizabeth, "High School Language Arts Teachers' Perceptions of Students' Motivation to Learn in a Project-Based Learning Class" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14889.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14889
