Impact of Positive Interdependence on Interest of University Students in Collaborative Learning Environment

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of positive interdependence on university students’ interest and enjoyment, a core component of intrinsic motivation. Positive interdependence, a key element of collaborative learning, refers to the perception that individual’s success is linked to the success of their peers whereas interest and enjoyment, refers to an individual’s internal drive to engage in an activity for its inherent satisfaction. Data were collected from 300 students across social sciences departments using a self-developed Likert scale questionnaire. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) revealed that positive interdependence has strong significant effect on students’ interest and enjoyment in academic activities. The high beta values and R² scores suggest that students who feel more interdependent on fellow students are far more inclined to take pleasure in and stay motivated in academic pursuits. These findings suggest that fostering positive interdependence where students rely on each other enhances not only academic engagement but also the overall learning experience.