The Project Background
Recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in new far-reaching implications for student motivation, engagement, and persistence (MEP). Social distancing measures, the shift to remote learning, and the tumultuous sociopolitical climate have all negatively affected student motivation across various populations (Fong, 2021; Müller et al., 2021).
Among the most impacted are Black, Latinx, and students from low-income backgrounds who face compounded obstacles in accessing quality education.
Despite their heightened risk of decreased MEP, there remains a lack of research focusing on these populations’ MEP and the systemic factors that profoundly influence their educational experiences.
As demand for this topic continues to grow, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) partnered with EduDream to conduct a systematic review of the literature on student Motivation, Engagement, and Persistence (MEP).
The Project Goals
EduDream reviewed over 100 sources to explore how MEP is defined in the literature, the impact of systemic and contextual factors on student MEP, and recommendations for educators, researchers, and policymakers.
Three overarching research questions guided the data collection and analysis:
- How does the literature define student motivation, persistence, and engagement (MEP) in K12 and postsecondary education?
- How do different definitions and models of student motivation, engagement, and persistence (MEP) in K12 and postsecondary education incorporate systemic factors?
- Given the limited MEP literature focused on K12 and postsecondary education, how can existing MEP definitions and models be adapted for the higher education context?
The Project Outcome
EduDream co-created the research questions, presented emerging learnings, and delivered an 8-page synthesis summarizing evidence that addresses three research questions. EduDream also presented a slide deck of key learnings from the synthesis to a large portion of the US Education Program team.
The MEP synthesis provided BMGF with the evidence needed to revisit and direct strategy and investments. They continue to engage with internal and external stakeholders through this synthesis. EduDream is also sharing this report with education leaders and decision-makers throughout 2024, advocating for policies and school environments that cultivate motivation and academic success for all students, ultimately working towards a more equitable educational landscape.