An examination of learning strategy, interest, intention and academic performance: Case studies of Australia and Malaysia

Abstract

High attrition rates in engineering program are a concern worldwide. We are exploring the hypothesis that conation is an important factor for success in engineering study. This ongoing PhD research project is exploring cognitive, affective and conative elements using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) model, which proposes a logical progression from cognitive through affective and conative to performance. The three elements were examined in the form of learning approaches namely learning strategy, learning interest (motive) and learning intention respectively. Participants consisted of 122 Australian students and 136 Malaysian students who completed a background questionnaire, the Study Pro..