When it comes to biology lessons in Germany, girls generally exhibit higher levels of self-determined motivation than boys. Previous research suggests that fostering student autonomy could be a way to effectively address this gender gap. To investigate gender-related effects in biology education, a sample of 303 sixth-grade students (M[subscript…

This study examined the relationships between motivational beliefs, defined as self-efficacy for self-regulated learning and achievement goals, engagement and academic cheating in the context of learning biology. Gender differences across these variables were also examined and both active and second-party types of cheating were included. Based on…

In this article, we outline the need to draw upon multiple contexts to gain meaningful understanding of factors that have a significant bearing upon student achievement motivation and engagement. In calling for theoretical approaches that can accommodate the complexities involved, we suggest that Bronfenbrenner's bioecological theory offers…

This article presents the first results of an investigation in a scholastic context aimed a determining the conditions that favour the acquisition of knowledge in biology within interactions in groups of 4 pupils. There were three work sessions in small groups, and some sessions in class groups. The pupils' conceptions were assessed at the…