A mastery-oriented climate - The way to high effort, intrinsic motivation and performance in physical education

Abstract

This study is based on the Achievement Goal Theory (AGT) and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) as a theoretical framework. The purpose of the study is to look at the relationship between perceived motivational climate and the three basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence and social relationships in PE. Furthermore, we will look at the relationship between, satisfaction or frustration of the needs, and key learning indicators (effort, inner motivation and grade). The survey has been conducted at four high schools in Trøndelag with 231 respondents. SEM analyses were performed in Mplus. The results show that a mastering climate had a positive connection to satisfaction of the three basic needs, and that a performance-oriented climate had a positive connection to the frustration of the three basic needs. The results also show that satisfaction of the three basic needs had a positive connection to intrinsic motivation and grades, while the frustration of the needs had a negative relation to effort. Further, we have indirect effect from mastery climate to effort, intrinsic motivation and performance through need satisfaction, and an indirect effect from performance climate to effort through both need frustration and need satisfaction. Highlighting mastery and development instead of achievement and social comparison is emphasized as an important element in the teaching work. It is also important to facilitate good relationships, and that activities provide the opportunity for coping. This research will hopefully contribute to increased awareness of the motivation climate, basic needs and learning indicators of upper secondary schools in Norway. 2020