Empirical research on motivation in adult education and learning
A scoping review
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21866931 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Michaela Bílá (0009-0007-9481-2905, Tomas Bata University in Zlin), Jan Kalenda (0000-0002-4871-4753, Tomas Bata University in Zlin) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 16 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Pages | 289-320 |
| Publication date | 2025-10-10 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | European Journal for Research on the Education and Learning of Adults (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2000-7426 • E-ISSN: 2000-7426 |
| Publisher | Linköping University Electronic Press (PUBLISHER • SE) |
| DOI | 10.3384/rela.2000-7426.5721 |
| OpenAlex | W4415038797 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 62 |
This scoping review maps empirical research on motivation in adult education and learning, analysing 95 studies published between 1971 and 2024. Drawing on data from Web of Science and Scopus databases, it delineates key thematic areas, geographical patterns, and methodological orientations. The findings highlight a marked increase in publications since 2016, with a pronounced focus on specific learner populations – including non-traditional students, low-skilled adults, and second-chance learners in adult basic education. Research activity is heavily concentrated in European and Anglophone contexts, pointing to the need for broader cultural representation. While quantitative methods dominate, many studies employ instruments lacking validation. Notable gaps emerge in the use of mixed-methods and longitudinal designs. Overall, the review calls for more inclusive and methodologically robust inquiry to deepen our understanding of adult learner motivation across diverse educational landscapes
Adult education · Adult learner · Adult Learning · Educational research · Empirical research · Lifelong learning · Scopus · Thematic analysis · Evaluation of Teaching Practices · Higher Education and Employability · Motivation and Self-Concept in Sports
Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus
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| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |