Understanding Chinese master students’ research literacy: The roles of autonomous motivation and controlled motivation

Abstract

This study investigated the role of autonomous and controlled motivations in influencing Chinese master students’ research literacy based on the self-determination theory. Data were collected from 345 master students in Chinese universities. Results from the structural equation modelling analyses suggested both autonomous motivation and supervisors’ support significantly influenced master students’ research literacy, while the role of controlled motivation in influencing their research literacy did not achieve a significant level. Besides, supervisor’s support significantly influenced master students’ autonomous and controlled motivation. This study contributed to the people’s understanding of roles of supervisors’ support, autonomous motivation, and controlled motivation in improving master students’ research literacy and provided valuable insights for supervisors and policy makers to make informed decisions on improving students’ research literacy.