The Identification of Motivational Factors Influencing Community College Enrollment Based on Student Gender, Age at Time of Enrollment, and Familial Level of Educational Attainment

Abstract

Prospective college students have many options to choose from when deciding which type of higher education institution to attend. What compels potential students to enroll in a community college as opposed to other higher education institutions is unknown. The purpose of the study was to explore the academic motivation of students currently enrolled in a New York City community college using the Academic Motivation Scale College Version. In addition, the study examined the relations between academic motivation and student gender, age at time of enrollment, and familial level of educational attainment. Results from the present study may provide justification for incorporating dimensions of motivation into community college campus life for future students as well as benefit community college recruitment, retention, and completion efforts.