Higher Education Students' Perspectives on the Influence of Computer-Based Instructional Systems on Self-Efficacy and Motivation

• Main Author: Popkin, Kashieka N.
• Other Authors: Tyler-Wood, Tandra
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: University of North Texas 2019
• Subjects: Computer Based Instructional System; Self-Efficacy; Motivation
• Online Access: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1538708/

This dissertation aims to identify undergraduate students' perspectives concerning the effectiveness of CBI environments as an instructional tool, and the influence it has on their self-efficacy and motivation. Data was collected from 221 participants from two midwestern universities. A convergent mixed-method research was conducted using a Likert-style survey and semistructured interviews. Stepwise regression, Pearson correlation coefficient, effect sizes and thematic analysis were used to identify significant relationships between variables, and find recurring themes. It was found that over 70% of the student population had positive attitudes towards the use of CBI environments with a mean of 3.5 on a 5-point scale. Students who had a high mean attitude towards CBI systems also had a high mean self-efficacy score. Secondly, four models emerged which suggests that; the value student assign to tasks, the control over the CBI environment, control over their learning, and motivation are significant factors (p>.50) that affect their self-efficacy. Finally, it was found that students' motivation is affected by instructional components, challenges, lack of instructor presence, and feedback. It can be concluded that varying factors that can affect how students' perceive the courses and their abilities, and the implementation of adaptive CBI systems maybe an option to meet students' diverse instructional needs. Future research recommendations are (1) if professors pacing of activities within a CBI affect students' self-efficacy when course semesters vary, and (2) if the lack of professor control over activity design negatively impacts students learning and motivation.