The Multidimensional Crowdworker Motivation Scale
We developed the Multidimensional Crowdworker Motivation Scale (MCMS) to measure the motivation of crowdworkers. The MCMS is based on self-determination theory and measures crowdworker motivations along six dimensions. We asked crowdworkers on the micro-task platform CrowdFlower (now Figure Eight) the question "Why do you or would you put efforts into doing CrowdFlower tasks?". Answers were provided on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from “not at all” (1) to “completely” (7). Some items were adapted from existing motivation scales (please read the paper for details).
| Dimension | Description | Items |
|---|---|---|
| Amotivation | The absence of motivation, a state of acting passively or not intending to act at all. | * I don’t know why, CrowdFlower tasks often seem like a waste of time. * I don't know why I'm doing CrowdFlower tasks, it's pointless work. * I don't know why, I often percieve CrowdFlower tasks as an annoying chore. |
| Material External Regulation | Obtain material rewards or avoid material punishments. | * Because CrowdFlower tasks give me financial gains. * For the income CrowdFlower tasks provide me. * Because of the money I get from doing CrowdFlower tasks. |
| Social External Regulation | Obtain social rewards or avoid social punishments. | * Because other people want me to do CrowdFlower tasks (e.g. family, friends,...). * Because other people say I should (e.g. family, friends,...). * Because other people expect it of me (e.g. family, friends,...). |
| Introjected Regulation | Avoiding guilt or at attaining feelings of worth. | * Because otherwise I would have a bad conscience. * Because otherwise I will feel ashamed of myself. * Because otherwise I will feel bad about myself. |
| Identified Regulation | The action is in alignment with the individual's personal goals. | * Because this is the type of work I chose to do to attain a certain lifestyle. * Because I chose this type of work to attain my career goals. * Because it is the type of work I have chosen to attain certain important objectives. |
| Intrinsic Motivation | Driven by interest and enjoyment. | * Because I have fun doing CrowdFlower tasks. * Because I enjoy doing CrowdFlower tasks. * Because what I do in CrowdFlower tasks is interesting. |