Motivation, Distraction, and Other Factors Associated With Student Performance in Business Data Management and Information Systems

This study examines determinants of student performance in Business Data Management and Information Systems. Of the motivation factors studied (intended grade, intention to attend graduate school, and intention to obtain a professional certificate) only the first factor has some association with student performance. None of the three distraction factors (work hours, work type, and course load) significantly negatively affect student performance. However, while course load doesn’t negatively affect students’ grades, there is weak evidence that it may lower the total points the students earn for the course. Of the three self-perceived ability factors (Reading, Writing, and Listening), only Writing has some significant association with student performance. As to other factors, gender has some significant association with student performance, but age does not. Finally, the pre-requisite Mathematic course grade and overall GPA are strong predictors of student performance in Business Data Management and Information Systems.