Abstract:

In this study the Learning Motivation Scale (LMS) was adapted to the Portuguese military context. The psychometric properties are presented and the results from the factor analysis displayed, which highlighted three factors – learning goal, performance-approach goal and performance-avoidance goal, with an item distribution coherent with the original version. The sample involved 149 trainees of the Training Course for Petty Officers 1st Class of the Portuguese Navy, ages ranging from 25 to 36, mostly of male gender. When studying external validity the scale factors appeared correlated, as expected, with other variables of commitment with training tasks, assessed with Assessment Scale for Trainee Engagement in the Portuguese Navy (ASTE-PN) and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES). The results suggest that the adapted version presents good psychometric qualities which make it useful in research and intervention, in psychology and education within a military context.

Keywords:

Motivation of military trainees, learning goals, scale adaptation, psychometric studies.