Relationship between Motivation, Academic Self-concept and Academic Achievement amongst Students at a Ghanaian Technical University

Abstract

Purpose- This study explores the relationship between motivation, academic self-concept and academic achievement amongst Sunyani Technical University students. Gender differences between academic self-concept, motivation and academic achievement were also investigated.

Design/methodology/approach- The study utilized a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. A self-constructed questionnaire was used to collect data from 193 final year Higher National Diploma students from four faculties at the university, using simple random sampling techniques. Criterion for academic achievement was a mark which students themselves reported. Data were analyzed using SPSS16 by means of Pearson Correlation coefficient

Finding-The study found that there were significant correlations between academic self-concept, motivation and academic achievement of students. It was also found that female students are significantly more motivated than their male counterparts.

Conclusion: The study concludes that the findings justify the importance of academic self-concept and motivation to academic achievement. Some recommendations were made regarding the enhancement of academic self-concept and motivation amongst students to improve their performance.

Value/originality-Since the study is first of its kind critically exploring the relationship between motivation, academic self-concept and academic achievement amongst students at a Ghanaian Technical University, management in the tertiary sector may find the findings and conclusions useful. The findings trigger more research interests among scholars who might be interested in the field of human resource management.