This study attempted to explore the influence of causal elements (ability, effort, task difficulty, and luck) as the strongest elements of locus of control predicting students' academic achievement satisfaction among foreign students. Based on locus of control scale invented by Rotter (1966), the findings obtained from 210 foreign students in…

Laboratory and a field studies contrasted the egotism and expectancy-covariance approaches to attribution for achievement outcomes. Subjects' expectations and the basis of these expectations were varied and outcomes were then manipulated. Results supported egotism, suggesting that motivational factors can determine attributions to ability and task…

The effects of a modified mastery learning system on achievement in an individualized high school physical science course are examined. Results indicate that a medium performance standard was superior to both high and low standards for promoting achievement in both difficult and easily learned materials. (JN)

Goal setting is examined as an influence on student learning and self-evaluation. Goal setting results in increased motivation, on-task behavior, effort, and persistence and conveys information concerning individual performance capabilities and personal accomplishments. (JN)

Three causal attributions--ability, effort, and test difficulty--were examined for 223 University of Manitoba (Canada) students in relation to perceived performance and the quality of instruction. When instruction was good, causal attributions produced less variability in achievement and control. Implications for teaching are discussed. (SLD)