Only a matter of time? Using logfile data to evaluate temporal motivation theory in university students' examination preparation

Abstract

Background: While previous research has emphasized the importance of personal beliefs (expectancy-value theories) for achievement-motivated behaviour, it lacks the integration of temporal factors that are also discussed as important drivers of achievement-motivated behaviour. Temporal Motivation Theory (TMT) combines both approaches in a formalized manner. Aims: Although TMT is supported by empirical studies with self-reported academic procrastination, it has not been tested on actual achievement-motivated behaviour. Materials & Methods: We evaluated the predictive power of the TMT on N = 2351 learning days of 127 psychology students' self-regulated examination preparation for statistics over the course of one semester using logfile data of an e-learning system. Results: The proposed TMT score, incorporating expectancy and value beliefs, sensivitiy to delay, and actual time till examination predicted students' achievement-motivated behaviour significantly. Discussion: Further analyses revealed that not the trait compositions of the TMT, but the temporal proximity of the statistics examination was the main driver of this association. Conclusion: The results have important implications for understanding the factors that shape students' motivation to learn and subsequent academic success in actual learning situations. Thus, research should continue to take situational aspects, especially the temporal proximity of goals more into account.