Bibliometric exploration of university students' motivation in sports-related degrees: evidence from Scopus and Scielo (2020-2025)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v71.117501Keywords:
Academic performance, bibliometric analysis , motivation, sports careers , university studentsAbstract
Introduction: Motivation among university students in sports-related programs is key to understanding their academic performance, continuity in studies, and professional development.
Objective: To explore the scientific production on the motivation of university students in sports-related programs between 2020 and 2025, based on available evidence in Scopus and SciELO.
Methodology: A bibliometric research design with a descriptive and analytical approach was applied, based on a systematic review of the literature published between 2020 and 2025.
Results: A total of 18 scientific articles related to the motivation of university students in sports-related programs were identified. Asia and Europe showed greater dynamism in this field, although Latin America presented specific contributions, particularly in Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Ecuador.
Discussion: The reviewed studies confirm the relevance of self-determination theory as the dominant framework to explain motivation in the university sports context.
Conclusions: The main findings highlight the influence of intrinsic factors (such as personal interest and satisfaction with the program) and extrinsic factors (such as teacher support, institutional infrastructure, and professional development opportunities) on students’ motivation.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Eduardo Fabio Henríquez Mendoza, Franklin Gustavo Santín Picoita, Carlos Antonio Granda Cruz, Ketty Daniela Calva Cabrera
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