Facilitating Students’ Motivation in the Basic Communication Course: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective

Authors

Jessalyn I. Vallade, University of KentuckyFollow
Renee Kaufmann, University of KentuckyFollow
T. Kody Frey, University of KentuckyFollow

Section Name

Research Articles

Abstract

Given that students may not find inherent value in their general education courses, and in particular, the basic communication course (BCC), the current study was aimed at exploring the instructor behaviors that students identify as enhancing their motivation within this context. Specifically, the purpose of the current study was to qualitatively explore instructor behaviors and student motivation in the BCC, specifically through the lens of self-determination theory. Open-ended responses from students currently enrolled in a basic communication course resulted in 28 themes, which were organized by student needs of relatedness, autonomy, and competence. Relatedness themes were most frequently reported, with particular emphasis on instructors’ positive teaching style and course content relevance. Practical implications based on student responses are offered for BCC instructors.

Recommended Citation

Vallade, Jessalyn I.; Kaufmann, Renee; and Frey, T. Kody (2020) "Facilitating Students’ Motivation in the Basic Communication Course: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective," Basic Communication Course Annual: Vol. 32, Article 9.
Available at: https://ecommons.udayton.edu/bcca/vol32/iss1/9