Abstract
This exploratory study examines the relationship between ECAs (predictor variables: involvement, breadth, type) and GPA (outcome variable). The two main research questions are (1) Can we confirm the positive relationship between involvement and breadth with GPA? and (2) Is there a relationship between type of ECA and GPA? Data were collected in 2021 during online learning due to COVID-19. In a mixed-methods study, participants (N = 297) completed a battery of surveys measuring involvement (N = 103) and breadth, answered free-response questions about type of activity and motivation, and self-reported their GPA. Involvement had a positive relationship with GPA. Tests on breadth and GPA, and type and GPA did not yield significant results. An exploratory content analysis offered insights into motivation for ECA involvement’s relationship with GPA. While this archival study is limited, the findings pilot further research into the influence of ECA type and motivation on academic success.