Using achievement goals and interest to predict learning in physical education

On the basis of an integrated theoretical approach to achievement motivation, the authors designed this study to investigate the potential influence of mastery goal, performance-approach and avoidance-approach goals, individual interest, and situational interest on students' learning in a physical education softball unit. The authors collected and analyzed data from 6th graders (N = 177), using correlation and multiple regression analyses. The results revealed that the mastery goal was a significant predictor for the recognition of situational interest, although individual interest directly contributed to acquisition of knowledge and skill. The findings suggest a need for researchers to adopt an integrated theoretical framework to explore the complicated connection between achievement motivation and learning in physical education.