Analysis of Differences in Motivation Levels in the Learning Process: A Comparison Between Young and Senior University Students by Gender
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2025-1330Keywords:
Lifelong learning, Learning Motivation, Senior Education, Intergenerational Comparison, Gender, Motivational Differences, Teaching Methodologies, Learning ExperiencesAbstract
Introduction: Universities are adapting to new learning models demanded by today's society, where lifelong learning becomes a fundamental pillar encompassing multiple stages and motivations. In the university context, understanding the differences in motivation between young and senior students can play an essential role in designing educational programs and applying teaching methodologies. Methodology: This study compares the motivation between young and senior students at the University of Murcia. A survey was administered to 65 students from the Business Administration degree and the Senior Classroom Study Program during the 2022-23 academic year, using non-parametric statistical significance tests such as the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The results of this research reveal interesting statistically significant differences in student motivation between young and senior university students, with significant divergences also observed by gender. Discussion: The observed differences confirm the results obtained in previous studies and highlight the need to adapt teaching methodologies to the diversity of learning experiences. Conclusions: The existence of significant differences in motivations between young and senior university students implies the need to adapt teaching methodologies in the lifelong educational process.
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