A study of the motivational factors that influence student engagement and how best to improve course design, delivery and outcomes.
Six courses were compared over successive weeks, and the tutor rated her perception of student motivation for each class.
As a result of a series of course adaptations; student morale, attitude, motivation and engagement improved and more students rated a higher number of course elements as either good or excellent. The evaluation of impact helped to ensure that the lessons learnt will direct and inform future course design and delivery. Valuing and respecting students and fostering conditions to give them a degree of control over their circumstances was key to improving course outcomes and student motivation. Feedback from students was positive about many aspects of the learning experience. Induction, course delivery, the level and content of the course, and feeling safe and welcomed were all rated excellent in the adapted courses compared to the earlier ones. Some aspects of the course, like accommodation, where improvements could not be made, were rated consistently as poor.