Proposition Statements

Were I to construct my questionnaires and attitude scales for unmotivated kids at alternative schools (or borrow some from existing studies), I believe one potential bias could be a misunderstanding between the students and myself over what constitutes an acceptable level of motivation. Depending on their life history and background, a student may perceive him or herself as motivated simply by showing up to school or class, by not talking back while the teacher lectures, perhaps even for only sleeping for part of the time. To resolve such a dilemma I would either need to lower my expectations as to the degree of motivation I expect for students, or clearly and effectively communicate to students what types of behaviors are apparent in a motivated student. The second option is additionally problematic as most research concerning motivational surveys deal with students in a general education setting (although many of these students are still "at-risk"), and there are academic differences in the terms and assessment strategies used.