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This study measures personality types, Type A behaviour patterns, self-esteem, self-efficacy, attendance and motivation with the aim of identifying which factors prove the most valuable predictors of academic success. The study takes a sceptical view of the primary position the Five Factor Model has taken in educational research to the detriment of other factors. Attendance rates, self-efficacy and Type A behaviour were all found to be more significant predictors of academic success than any of the big five factors. The study argues that while the Five Factor Model may be a useful tool for helping higher education institutes improve understanding of student diversity and provide better support structures and teaching methods for the benefit of all personality types, other factors appear to be stronger predictors of academic success.
