Inclusive learning environments can improve student learning and motivational beliefs

Abstract

We discuss an investigation of students’ motivational beliefs and performance on the Force Concept Inventory (FCI) in a calculus-based introductory physics course at a large public university in the U.S. We investigated how students’ perception of the inclusiveness of the learning environment (including perceived recognition, perceived effectiveness of peer interaction, and sense of belonging) predicts students’ FCI scores and physics motivational beliefs (including self-efficacy, interest, and overall physics identity) at the end of the course after controlling for students’ high school performance and their FCI scores and motivational beliefs at the beginning of the course. We find signatures of noninclusive learning environment in that female students’ mean scores in physics motivational beliefs and perception of the inclusiveness of the learning environment were lower than male students’, and the gender gap in students’ self-efficacy increased from the beginning to the end of the course. Using structural equation modeling, we find that the gender differences in students’ motivational beliefs and FCI scores were mediated by the different components of students’ perception of the inclusiveness of the learning environment. In particular, students’ perceived recognition, e.g., by instructors, was an important predictor of their overall physics identity, and their sense of belonging predicted their self-efficacy and FCI scores. Our findings can be valuable for contemplating guidelines for creating an inclusive learning environment in which all students can excel.