PERC 2025 Abstract Detail Page
Previous Page | New Search | Browse All
| Abstract Title: | Examining the Motivations of STEM Graduate Teaching Assistants through Expectancy Value Theory |
|---|---|
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
| Abstract: | Many STEM graduate students are funded through teaching assistantships. Experiences of graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) in these positions are formative and important for retention, yet often de-prioritized. This poster discusses analyses of two focus groups of GTAs collected as part of photovoice studies. We analyze focus group transcripts using expectancy value theory (EVT), which theorizes motivation is influenced by expectancies to succeed, cost, and three values: intrinsic, utility, and attainment. We coded the transcripts for these constructs. Preliminary findings show GTA experiences align with one or more EVT constructs. If experiences suggest GTAs lack aspects of motivation, educators and graduate program leaders may be able to identify broader systemic issues, which can then be addressed rather than targeting symptoms GTAs experience, ignoring underlying causes. Without motivation, GTAs' work, mental health, and program standing may suffer. Supporting GTA motivation is vital for the health of graduate programs and scientific disciplines. |
| Session Time: | Poster Session B |
| Poster Number: | B-64 |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
David Seiden University of Georgia Department of Physics and Astronomy Athens, GA 30605 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Nicholas Young, University of Georgia Nandana Weliweriya, University of Georgia Sarah Jane Bork, University of Georgia |
Contributed Poster | |
| Contributed Poster: | Download the Contributed Poster |
