Motivation Systems and Test Anxiety in Undergraduates of COMSATSUniversity Islamabad, Lahore Campus

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed at determining differences in undergraduates' experience of test anxiety according to their years of education in the semester system and the behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system (BAS) of motivation that influences learning.

Design of the study: Cross-sectional research design.

Place and duration of study: The study was carried out at COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, from January to September 2018. 

Sample and Method: Two hundred undergraduates with ages 18 to 26 (M_age = 20.24, SD= 1.62) were selected from COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, through convenient sampling. Participants responded to Westside Test Anxiety and BIS/BAS Motivational System Scales.

Results and Conclusion: Analysis suggests that students in their first two years of education in the semester system experienced a significantly higher test anxiety level than students in their last two years (P≤ .05). Moreover, a significantly high test anxiety level has been identified in students with behavioral inhibition systems than the behavioral activation systems of motivation (P≤ .05).  This study will help university students give insight into their anxiety issues; allowing university teachers to design appropriate interventions and plan lessons accordingly.  Future endeavors for research are also suggested.