Motivation to Study Social Services in Higher Education: Case: Laurea University of Applied Sciences
Brodka, Philipp; Parikka, Lila (2019)
Brodka, Philipp
Parikka, Lila
2019
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2019053113830
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2019053113830
Tiivistelmä
The objective of the Bachelor Thesis was to determine relevant contributing factors towards students’ motivation for applying to a Bachelor’s Degree programme in Social Services at Laurea University of Applied Sciences. Students’ motivation during studies was explored as well. The aim of this research was to isolate key factors in student motivation and wellbeing, which would be useful for Laurea, as they could further develop their services.
Motivation theories and established factors for holistic student wellbeing are used in this thesis to substantiate the conducted research and to warrant relevant results. These theories include Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory and Alderfer’s ERG Theory. Furthermore, the theoretical framework introduces contemporary motivation theories on learning.
Focus group interviews were chosen as the qualitative research method for this thesis. Electing the use of qualitative research methods over quantitative research methods proved crucial in the data collection process, as additional emphasis was placed on students’ unique experiences and wishes, rather than conglomerated statistics about students as a demographic. Eight participants in total were involved in the data gathering process, seven during focus group interviews, and one through an e-mail questionnaire.
Results were summarized into three major categories: Firstly, influencing factors in study motivation, secondly, students’ perception of their ongoing studies, and lastly, the effect of these studies on students’ professional development. The data gathered in the focus group interviews suggested that students generally have a prior interest in the field of social services before choosing to apply for the study degree. Furthermore, the students’ individual perception of their studies seems to be tied to interpersonal connections between fellow students and teachers. Additionally, students’ plans after graduation do not generally seem to change during their studies and are more closely tied to family relations. The research conducted is of benefit to the Laurea administration, as they will better understand relevant influences in student choice, and Laurea students themselves.
Motivation theories and established factors for holistic student wellbeing are used in this thesis to substantiate the conducted research and to warrant relevant results. These theories include Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory and Alderfer’s ERG Theory. Furthermore, the theoretical framework introduces contemporary motivation theories on learning.
Focus group interviews were chosen as the qualitative research method for this thesis. Electing the use of qualitative research methods over quantitative research methods proved crucial in the data collection process, as additional emphasis was placed on students’ unique experiences and wishes, rather than conglomerated statistics about students as a demographic. Eight participants in total were involved in the data gathering process, seven during focus group interviews, and one through an e-mail questionnaire.
Results were summarized into three major categories: Firstly, influencing factors in study motivation, secondly, students’ perception of their ongoing studies, and lastly, the effect of these studies on students’ professional development. The data gathered in the focus group interviews suggested that students generally have a prior interest in the field of social services before choosing to apply for the study degree. Furthermore, the students’ individual perception of their studies seems to be tied to interpersonal connections between fellow students and teachers. Additionally, students’ plans after graduation do not generally seem to change during their studies and are more closely tied to family relations. The research conducted is of benefit to the Laurea administration, as they will better understand relevant influences in student choice, and Laurea students themselves.