Comparative Analysis of Business and Non-Business Students' Performances in Financial Accounting: Passing Rates, Interest and Motivation in Accounting, and Attitudes toward Reading and Math

This study compares the passing performances of the Florida AM interest and motivation in financial accounting; and attitudes toward math and reading subjects that may influence their success or failure in financial accounting. University/college/school administrators and faculty may find the results of this study helpful in evaluating their accounting program. Some may find that the techniques employed in this study helpful in evaluating their accounting program. Others may find the evaluation design useful as part of their overall evaluation of the financial accounting course. While the survey was limited to the attitudes of a specific group of college students and the descriptive analysis was limited to only one university, the methodology employed maybe useful as a model in assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of the financial and other accounting courses. By identifying certain factors that influence students' success or failure in financial accounting, further research or studies can be done to evaluate the accounting programs in higher education. The Financial Accounting Courses The Florida AM to give up-dates on class performance (i.e. attendance, participation, team activities, homework assignments, case studies, etc.); and to share teaching methodology and techniques. The courses were taught in an environment that allows students become active participants in the learning process. The major differences in the two course offerings were: 1) different text books were used and; 2) the non-business course had less case studies and research requirements. …