Educational motivation and students’ achievement goal orientations

AbstractThis paper aims to enhance teachers’ understandings of the nature and importance of students’ achievement goal orientations in elementary mathematics education. In particular, the study includes a theoretical background about what achievement goal orientation is, and the nature of students’ goal orientations. Next, a literature review is provided about the major models identified in goal theory. Then, a discussion is made about why achievement goal orientations are important in mathematics education, supported with the research findings in the literature. Finally, a conclusion is made to summarize the main arguments discussed in the previous parts, with specific suggestions to mathematics teachers