Title: Navigating motivational landscapes; understanding the dynamics of mature students in higher education for enhanced performance management: a case study

Authors: Nick Papé; Nazim Uddin; Rahaman Hasan

Addresses: London Churchill College, Barclay Hall, 156B Green Street, Upton Park London, E7 8JQ, UK ' London Churchill College, Barclay Hall, 156B Green Street, Upton Park London, E7 8JQ, UK ' Canterbury Christ Church University, North Holmes Rd., Canterbury, Kent CT1 1NX, UK

Abstract: This study investigates the motivations of mature higher education students, employing a mixed-methods approach. Analysing quantitative and qualitative data, six distinct motivations emerge, with five leaning towards extrinsic factors and one intrinsic factor: enjoying the subject matter. The predominant extrinsic motivations focus on personal and career development, specifically anticipating future financial benefits. Instrumental motivations include the dream of transformation, skill development and credential attainment, all linked to achieving career success. Comparisons with other studies reveal a mixed perspective, emphasising the diverse nature of mature students' motivations. The results offer valuable insights for educators and institutions, guiding the enhancement of student experiences and teaching methodologies. Tailoring courses to address the pragmatic needs of mature students, integrating extrinsic and intrinsic motivational strategies, is crucial. As adult enrolment in higher education rises, designing learning opportunities that align with this demographic's unique needs within formal educational settings becomes imperative, emphasising performance management considerations.

Keywords: motivation; extrinsic; intrinsic; adult higher education; independent provider; teaching approaches; andragogy; widening access; HE practitioners; performance management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBPM.2026.156112

International Journal of Business Performance Management, 2026 Vol.27 No.5, pp.553 - 573

Received: 31 Jan 2024
Accepted: 11 Feb 2024
Published online: 04 Sep 2026 *

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