How to get students motivated in the classroom. A comparative study between the 2nd year of Basic Vocational Training and the 4th year of Compulsory Secondary Education in Spain

A study published in Frontiers in Education, examining student motivation in Spain, found notable differences between educational streams and genders. Using the MAPE-II questionnaire on 63 students aged 15-17, the research identified significant variations in the 'fear of failure' dimension, with female students and those in the fourth year of Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) reporting higher levels. This analysis aims to inform guidelines for educators to enhance student motivation.

Why it matters

Understanding factors influencing student motivation is critical for educational institutions to design effective curricula and pedagogical approaches. Addressing varying motivational profiles, particularly concerning 'fear of failure' among different student cohorts, can enhance learning engagement and academic achievement across educational systems.

Key insights

• Student motivation is a critical determinant of academic performance and learning outcomes.
• Significant differences in 'fear of failure' were observed between student groups.
• Girls scored higher than boys on the 'fear of failure' dimension.
• Fourth-year Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) students scored higher than Basic Vocational Education and Training (FPB) students on 'fear of failure'.
• The study aimed to propose guidelines for teachers to foster student motivation, based on identified differences.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1884637