May the Choice Be with You? The Effects and Perceptions of Choice on Writing for College Students

• Other Authors: Aitken, Angelique (Author)
• Format: Doctoral Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: Special education; Choice; Hierarchical-Linear Modeling; Mixed-Methods; Semi-Structured Interviews; Writing Intervention; Writing Motivation
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2286/R.I.50575

abstract: An explanatory sequence mixed methods design was used to examine the effects of choice on the writing performance and motivation of college students (n = 242). The randomized control trial was followed by semi-structured interviews to determine the perceptions students (n = 20) held on the experiment as well the importance of choosing writing topics in college writing assignments. The effects of choice were tested as part of a real writing assignment that was included in nine sections of an introductory special education course. Results from hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) analyses found choice had a statistically significant negative effect on holistic writing quality, number of words written, and intrinsic writing motivation. Findings from the semi-structured interviews provided context for understanding the unexpected quantitative results. === Dissertation/Thesis === Doctoral Dissertation Learning, Literacies and Technologies 2018