{"id":{"repo_id":"temple","oai_identifier":"oai:scholarshare.temple.edu:20.500.12613/1208"},"canonical_url":"https://search.dev.ndltd.org/etd/temple/oai:scholarshare.temple.edu:20.500.12613/1208","repository":{"repo_id":"temple","name":"Temple University","base_url":"https://scholarshare.temple.edu/server/oai/request"},"display":{"title":"What Does That Piece of Paper Really Mean? An Inquiry Into Certification Motivation","abstract":"Though under-analyzed, third-party employee competency certifications are increasing in number; many feel that accumulation of certifications is essential for career success. I argue that in their current form, certifications are double-edged: their purpose is to reduce transaction costs, enhance performance, and foster development; but they can also be used as 'credentials' to gain prestige, rewards or influence. I suggest that excessive use for this latter purpose can undermine their contribution to performance. In this study of HR practitioners that draws on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), I test the relationship between certification-seeking motivation and obtaining certification, perceived job competence, and affective occupational commitment. Hierarchical regression results show an association between autonomous motivation and both obtaining certification and commitment; however, professional association membership may also play a role in fostering such motivation. I end with suggestions for future research.","abstract_html":"Though under-analyzed, third-party employee competency certifications are increasing in number; many feel that accumulation of certifications is essential for career success. I argue that in their current form, certifications are double-edged: their purpose is to reduce transaction costs, enhance performance, and foster development; but they can also be used as 'credentials' to gain prestige, rewards or influence. I suggest that excessive use for this latter purpose can undermine their contribution to performance. In this study of HR practitioners that draws on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), I test the relationship between certification-seeking motivation and obtaining certification, perceived job competence, and affective occupational commitment. Hierarchical regression results show an association between autonomous motivation and both obtaining certification and commitment; however, professional association membership may also play a role in fostering such motivation. I end with suggestions for future research.","abstract_has_math":false,"creators":["Fertig, Jason"],"institution":"Temple University. 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I argue that in their current form, certifications are double-edged: their purpose is to reduce transaction costs, enhance performance, and foster development; but they can also be used as 'credentials' to gain prestige, rewards or influence. I suggest that excessive use for this latter purpose can undermine their contribution to performance. In this study of HR practitioners that draws on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), I test the relationship between certification-seeking motivation and obtaining certification, perceived job competence, and affective occupational commitment. Hierarchical regression results show an association between autonomous motivation and both obtaining certification and commitment; however, professional association membership may also play a role in fostering such motivation. I end with suggestions for future research."]},{"key":"dc:description.degree","label":"Dc Description Degree","values":["Ph.D."]},{"key":"dc:title","label":"Title","values":["What Does That Piece of Paper Really Mean? An Inquiry Into Certification Motivation"]}]}],"canonical_facts":{"dc:contributor.advisor":["Blau, Gary J."],"dc:contributor.committeemember":["Zeitz, Gerald Joseph, 1942-","Deckop, John Raymond","Pred, Robert"],"dc:creator":["Fertig, Jason"],"dc:date.accessioned":["2020-10-26T18:25:52Z"],"dc:date.available":["2020-10-26T18:25:52Z"],"dc:date.issued":["2009"],"dc:description.abstract":["Though under-analyzed, third-party employee competency certifications are increasing in number; many feel that accumulation of certifications is essential for career success. 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