FTCE Physical Education K-12 Practice Test

According to attribution theory, what primarily affects students' motivation?

1. Their actual performance in physical activities

2. The perceptions about their educational experiences

3. The educators' teaching styles

4. The types of rewards presented

The correct answer is: The perceptions about their educational experiences

Attribution theory posits that individuals' perceptions of the causes of their successes and failures significantly influence their motivation levels. When students perceive their educational experiences positively, they are more likely to feel competent and motivated to engage in physical activities. These perceptions can encompass various aspects, such as feedback received, the difficulty of tasks, and the support from peers and teachers. As students attribute their successes to controllable factors (e.g., effort and strategy), their sense of agency and motivation increases. In contrast, while actual performance can impact motivation, it is the interpretation of that performance—how students perceive their abilities and outcomes—that plays a more critical role. Similarly, while educators’ teaching styles can influence the classroom environment and engagement levels, it is the students' perceptions of those experiences that ultimately shape their motivation. Lastly, while rewards can be motivating, the intrinsic motivation stemming from personal perceptions and beliefs tends to have a more lasting impact on students’ overall drive to participate and succeed.