Title: Influence of personal and social motivation on the attitude towards academic success in higher education: an analysis with PLS-SEM

Authors: Jerfenzon Salazar-Tabima

Addresses: University Antonio José Camacho, 6N Avenue No 28N-102, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

Abstract: This study analyses the influence of personal and social motivation on the attitude towards academic success in university students based on the theory of self-determination. The objective was to determine how these motivational factors impact performance and achievement of learning objectives. A partial least square structural equation model, PLS-SEM, was used to verify validity and reliability with a representative sample of 204 students in five high quality accredited universities in Colombia. The results reveal a positive, direct and significant relationship between the constructs social and personal motivation and attitude towards academic success. The findings underscore the importance of recognising that motivation not only influences academic achievement, but also the perception of success and the realisation of educational attainment. This study provides evidence regarding policies and strategies aimed at reinforcing motivational aspects in the university context. Future research can explore the relationship between motivation, organisational performance and the role of teachers.

Keywords: intrinsic motivation; academic success; higher education; PLS-SEM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLC.2025.146615

International Journal of Learning and Change, 2025 Vol.17 No.2, pp.185 - 204

Received: 05 Sep 2024
Accepted: 12 Mar 2025
Published online: 06 Jun 2025 *

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