Abstract:
This study explores the relationship between employee motivation and psychological capital
(PsyCap), and job performance among academic teaching staff at Ho Technical University
(HTU). The research aims to investigate how motivation and PsyCap influence job performance
and whether PsyCap moderates the effect of motivation on performance. A quantitative research
design was employed, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 150 academic
teaching staff at HTU. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis,
and hierarchical regression to examine the relationships between employee motivation,
psychological capital, and job performance. The sample was selected using convenience
sampling, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to conduct
the analysis. The study found a strong positive relationship between employee motivation and
job performance. It also revealed that psychological capital positively impacts job performance
and moderates the relationship between motivation and performance. Employees with high levels
of PsyCap were able to leverage their motivation more effectively, resulting in superior job
performance. This underscores the importance of both motivation and psychological capital in
enhancing performance in academic institutions. The findings suggest that organizations,
particularly in the academic sector, should focus on developing comprehensive motivation
strategies, such as recognition programs and professional development opportunities.
Additionally, institutions should invest in building the psychological capital of employees
through training interventions that enhance self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience. This
will not only improve job performance but also reduce employee turnover and foster a supportive
work environment. This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the moderating
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role of psychological capital in the relationship between motivation and job performance in an
academic setting. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and academic
administrators seeking to enhance staff performance through targeted motivation and
psychological capital development strategies.
