Motivation, Engagement and Educational Performance International Perspectives on the Contexts for Learning

Key factors that impact upon children's educational motivation and engagement are here considered from an international and comparative perspective. Based upon a major programme of research undertaken in sites in England, the USA and Russia, the authors identify interrelated elements operating at international, national and local levels. These include children's self-perceptions, goals, interests and aspirations, curriculum and pedagogy, peer and parental influences, teacher perceptions, school traditions and practices, together with the pervasive influence of broader social, cultural, historical and economic factors.