A Study of Motivation in Attending Trainings and Seminars provided by the Academic Services Section, Mahidol University International College (MUIC)

Abstract

The objective of this survey research aims to study motivation and factors affecting motivation in attending trainings and seminars provided by the Academic Services section, Mahidol University International College (MUIC). Questionnaires are used as tools and the target population is 105 participants who have attended trainings and seminars organized by the Academic Services during October, 2015 to January, 2016. By receiving a survey response rate of 52.38%, data analysis is performed by SPSS, using Frequency Statistic, Percentage (Percent), Mean () and Standard Deviation (SD), the Independent Samples T-Test and the One-Way ANOVA. The findings are as follows; the data shows that 85.5% of the population is female, 43.6% of ages between 31.40 years old, and 27.3% of ages between 41.50 years old, 56.4% of them completed Master’s degree, followed by 32.7% of those who completed Bachelor’s degree, and, 60% of them have 10 years of work experience, followed by 16.4% of those who have 7-9 years of work experience. The study found that the most motivational factor that influences participants in attending trainings and seminars organized by the Academic Services is the type of institutions ( = 4.21), followed by academic and facilities ( = 4.17), personal reasons ( = 4.16), economic factor ( = 3.96), social factor ( = 3.78), and related persons and public relations ( = 3.71).  As a result, the participants found that they improved analytical skills and have an ability to apply knowledge learned to their daily tasks, and contribute to society. They likewise feel more confident that they are capable of giving advice to others and solving problems at work. By comparing variables, it shows that the difference between gender, age, and work experience does not affect participants’ motivation. Nevertheless, a distinct level of education, based on a statistical significance level of 0.05, influences factors affecting motivation in attending economics trainings and seminars organized by the Academic Services.