To read this content please select one of the options below:

Investigating student’s motivation and online learning engagement through the lens of self-determination theory

Adedapo Oluwaseyi Ojo (School of Strategy and Leadership, College of Business and Law, Coventry University, Coventry, UK)
Sumitha Ravichander (Flex Limited – Penang, Simpang Ampat, Malaysia)
Christine Nya-Ling Tan (Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand)
Lilian Anthonysamy (Multimedia University – Cyberjaya Campus, Cyberjaya, Malaysia)
Chris Niyi Arasanmi (Al Akhawayn University, Ifrane, Morocco)

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education

ISSN: 2050-7003

Article publication date: 8 February 2024

Issue publication date: 27 November 2024

262

Abstract

Purpose

The lack of physical contact and the absence of nonverbal clues could make some learners uncomfortable interacting with others via online learning platforms. Hence, understanding the determinants of students' motivation and engagement in online learning platforms is crucial in harnessing digital technology as an enabler of unrestricted and quality learning experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the self-determination theory (SDT), this study investigates the factors associated with student’s motivation to learn (MOL) and their influence on online learning engagement (OLE). Data were collected from 228 university students from the Klang Valley region of Malaysia using the online survey method.

Findings

The results of data analysis using the partial least squares structural equation modeling indicate that self-directed learning, computer and Internet self-efficacy and online communication self-efficacy significantly influence MOL. Besides, these factors indirectly influence OLE through MOL.

Originality/value

This study adds to the SDT framework by demonstrating how students' perceptions of autonomy, competence and relatedness through online interaction relate to MOL and OLE.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

Funding: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency or institution.

Citation

Ojo, A.O., Ravichander, S., Tan, C.N.-L., Anthonysamy, L. and Arasanmi, C.N. (2024), "Investigating student’s motivation and online learning engagement through the lens of self-determination theory", Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, Vol. 16 No. 5, pp. 2185-2198. https://doi.org/10.1108/JARHE-09-2023-0445

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited

Related articles