Distinguishing Differences in the Academic Motivation of Entering and Persisting Transfer Students

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Author(s): Lane, F. C., Martin, G. L., & Thompson, K.

Citation: Lane, F. C., Martin, G. L., & Thompson, K. (2015). Distinguishing Differences in the Academic Motivation of Entering and Persisting Transfer Students. Journal of The First-Year Experience & Students in Transition, 27(2), 9-27.

 

Abstract

Transfer students make up a significant portion of the student body in higher education today; yet, representation of their college experiences and outcomes in the literature seems sparse. This study explored transfer students to determine whether their level of engagement and belonging in college was related to their academic motivation. We further tested to ascertain differences between transfer students at the beginning of their time at a new institution (entering transfer students) with those who were continuing at their institution (persisting transfer students). Overall, engagement and belonging or attachment were positively related to transfer students' academic motivation. These findings are further discussed along with implications for practice.

 

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