| Dissertation |
Thesis (M.Sc.) --NUI, 2013 at Department of Accounting, Finance and Information Systems, UCC. |
| Summary |
The aim of this study is to provide a comparison between accounting and business students' motivations to study, attitudes to their chosen subject area and views of the accounting profession. Prior research in accounting education has identified that students are both extrinsically and intrinsically motivated in the pursuit of their studies. The perceptions of accounting as a discipline and as a profession are important determinants in influencing future career choices. Prior research has examined the decline of not only student numbers but also a decline in the quality of student graduate. The study explores these issues in order to develop an understanding for students, educators and the accounting profession. A survey methodology was employed utilising established research instruments from prior researchers over two different research sites. The findings indicated that no significant difference exists between final year students' motivation when compared with first year students' motivation. No discernible difference was identified between accounting students' and business students' motivation. Female students display higher levels of motivation and a more favourable attitude towards their subject area compared to their male counterparts. In general, the expectations of students in this study conformed to the expectations of similar students in prior studies. In contrast to prior research, the most signalled referent was self but this seems to have had no influence on either motivation or attitude. Irish accounting students display more positive perceptions of the accounting profession compared to prior research in this area. For those students signalling an intended career progression into the accounting and finance sector, findings indicate higher levels of motivation. However, on closer examination of the results, for the majority of business students in this cohort, the results identify a negative view of the accounting profession while still indicating a desire to pursue a career in this area. |
| Subject |
Accounting -- Research.
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Business -- Research.
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| Collection |
Theses Masters (Research)
|
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Theses Accounting, Finance and Information Systems Department
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| Description |
119 p. ; 30 cm. |
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