Volume 2, 2024 – Issue 3 
Exploring Motivation, Self-Efficacy, and Self-Regulated Learning in Higher Education: A Theoretical Review
Otmane Omari 1
FPL, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Larache, Morocco
Corresponding author: otmane.omari@uae.ac.ma
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.14796899
Abstract
This theoretical review explores the interplay between motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning (SRL) in higher education, highlighting their combined impact on academic success. Drawing from established frameworks such as Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Achievement Goal Theory (AGT), the review examines how motivation influences students’ intrinsic and extrinsic drives, while self-efficacy shapes their belief in their ability to succeed. SRL, encompassing goal-setting, self-monitoring, and reflection, is presented as the bridge that links motivation and self-efficacy, empowering students to take control of their learning processes. The article brings together recent literature and empirical studies, offering practical strategies that professors can apply to strengthen these constructs. In particular, it addresses how instructors can design learning environments that promote student autonomy, resilience, and adaptive learning strategies. Specific attention is given to the Moroccan higher education context, providing culturally relevant recommendations for enhancing student engagement and achievement. This review emphasizes the importance of integrating motivation, self-efficacy, and SRL into institutional practices, urging professors and policymakers to adopt these visions to drive academic success. The review concludes with actionable recommendations for professors and institutions, highlighting the need for programs that foster these psychological factors to improve student outcomes.
Keywords: motivation theories, self-efficacy, self-regulated learning, academic success, higher education.
Published
2024/10/28
—
Section
Research Papers
How to Cite (APA)
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
Omari, O. (2024). Exploring motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning in higher education: A theoretical review. The International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education, 2(3), 60-88. https://ijtie.com/v203/n52
References
Ames, C. (1990). Motivation: What teachers need to know. Teachers College Record, 91(3), 409–421. https://doi.org/10.1177/016146819009100306
Ames, C. (1992). Classrooms: Goals, structures, and student motivation. Journal of Educational Psychology, 84(3), 261–271. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0663.84.3.261
Archer, J. (1994). Achievement goals as a measure of motivation in university students. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 19(4), 430–446. https://doi.org/10.1006/ceps.1994.1031
Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84(2), 191–215. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.84.2.191
Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. W.H. Freeman.
Bandura, A. (2010). Self-efficacy. In I. B. Weiner & W. E. Craighead (Eds.), The Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology (4th ed., pp. 1534–1536). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Benware, C. A., & Deci, E. L. (1984). Quality of learning with an active versus passive motivational set. American Educational Research Journal, 21(4), 755–765. https://doi.org/10.3102/00028312021004755
Black, A. E., & Deci, E. L. (2000). The effects of instructors’ autonomy support and students’ autonomous motivation on learning organic chemistry: A self-determination theory perspective. Science Education, 84(6), 740–756. https://doi.org/10.1002/1098-237X(200011)84:6<740::AID-SCE4>3.0.CO;2-3
Boekaerts, M. (1997). Self-regulated learning: A new concept embraced by researchers, policy makers, educators, teachers, and students. Learning and Instruction, 7(2), 161–186. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0959-4752(96)00015-1
Boekaerts, M., & Corno, L. (2005). Self-regulation in the classroom: A perspective on assessment and intervention. Applied Psychology, 54(2), 199–231. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-0597.2005.00205.x
Bong, M., Cho, C., Ahn, H. S., & Kim, H. J. (2012). Comparison of self-beliefs for predicting student motivation and achievement. Journal of Educational Research, 105(5), 336–352. https://doi.org/10.1080/00220671.2011.627399
Chan, J. C. Y., & Lam, S. F. (2008). Effects of competition on students’ self-efficacy in vicarious learning. Journal of Educational Psychology, 100(2), 280–290. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0663.100.2.280
Covington, M. V. (2000). Goal theory, motivation, and school achievement: An integrative review. Annual Review of Psychology, 51(1), 171–200. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.psych.51.1.171
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer Science & Business Media. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-2271-7
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327965PLI1104_01
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2008). Self-determination theory: A macrotheory of human motivation, development, and health. Canadian Psychology/Psychologie Canadienne, 49(3), 182–185. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0012801
Deci, E. L., Vallerand, R. J., Pelletier, L. G., & Ryan, R. M. (1991). Motivation and education: The self-determination perspective. Educational Psychologist, 26(3–4), 325–346. https://doi.org/10.1080/00461520.1991.9653137
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.
Elliot, A. J., & Dweck, C. S. (1988). Goals: An approach to motivation and achievement. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 54(1), 5–12. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.54.1.5
Elliot, A. J., & McGregor, H. A. (2001). A 2 × 2 achievement goal framework. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 80(3), 501–519. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.80.3.501
Grolnick, W. S., & Ryan, R. M. (1987). Autonomy in children’s learning: An experimental and individual difference investigation. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 52(5), 890–898. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.52.5.890
Harackiewicz, J. M., Barron, K. E., Tauer, J. M., Carter, S. M., & Elliot, A. J. (2000). Short-term and long-term consequences of achievement goals: Predicting interest and performance over time. Journal of Educational Psychology, 92(2), 316–330. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0663.92.2.316
Hidi, S., Renninger, K. A., & Krapp, A. (2004). Interest, learning and development. In D. Y. Dai & R. J. Sternberg (Eds.), Motivation, emotion, and cognition: Integrative perspectives on intellectual functioning and development (pp. 89–115). Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2004-14902-003
Jinks, J., & Lorsbach, A. (2003). Introduction: Motivation and self-efficacy belief. Reading and Writing Quarterly, 19(2), 113–118. https://doi.org/10.1080/10573560308218
Lepper, M. R., & Henderlong, J. (2000). Turning “play” into “work” and “work” into “play”: 25 years of research on intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation. In C. Sansone & J. M. Harackiewicz (Eds.), Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation: The search for optimal motivation and performance (pp. 257–307). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-012619070-0/50032-5
Maehr, M. L., & Zusho, A. (2009). Achievement goal theory: The past, present, and future. In K. R. Wentzel & A. Wigfield (Eds.), Handbook of motivation at school (pp. 85–107). Routledge.
Matthews, G. (2010). Cognitive neuroscience of human learning and motivation. Cambridge University Press.
Meece, J. L., Anderman, E. M., & Anderman, L. H. (2006). Classroom goal structure, student motivation, and academic achievement. Annual Review of Psychology, 57(1), 487–503. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.psych.56.091103.070258
Nicol, D. J., & Macfarlane-Dick, D. (2006). Formative assessment and self-regulated learning: A model and seven principles of good feedback practice. Studies in Higher Education, 31(2), 199–218. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075070600572090
Niemiec, C. P., & Ryan, R. M. (2009). Autonomy, competence, and relatedness in the classroom: Applying self-determination theory to educational practice. Theory and Research in Education, 7(2), 133–144. https://doi.org/10.1177/1477878509104318
Niemiec, C. P., Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2009). The path taken: Consequences of attaining intrinsic and extrinsic aspirations in post-college life. Journal of Research in Personality, 40(5), 491–507. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrp.2008.09.001
Omari, O., & Arssi, A. (2024). Exploring self-regulated learning strategies in reading comprehension for English majors: A post-pandemic perspective. Journal of College Reading and Learning, 54(2), 103–124. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790195.2024.2359510
Omari, O., Moubtassime, M., & Ridouani D. (2020). Factors affecting students’ self-efficacy beliefs in Moroccan higher education. Journal of Language and Education, 6(3), 108–124. https://doi.org/10.17323/jle.2020.9911
Omari, O., Moubtassime, M., & Ridouani, D. (2018). Assessing Moroccan university students’ English learning motivation: A comparative study. Advances in Language and Literary Studies, 9(1), 81–88. https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.alls.v.9n.1p.81
Pekrun, R., Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2009). Achievement goals and achievement emotions: Testing a model of their joint relations with academic performance. Journal of Educational Psychology, 101(1), 115–135. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0013383
Perry, N. E. (2002). Introduction: Using qualitative methods to enrich understandings of self-regulated learning. Educational Psychologist, 37(1), 1–3. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15326985EP3701_1
Pintrich, P. R. (2000a). Multiple goals, multiple pathways: The role of goal orientation in learning and achievement. Journal of Educational Psychology, 92(3), 544–555. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0663.92.3.544
Pintrich, P. R. (2000b). The role of goal orientation in self-regulated learning. In M. Boekaerts, P. R. Pintrich, & M. Zeidner (Eds.), Handbook of self-regulation (pp. 451–502). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-012109890-2/50043-3
Pintrich, P. R. (2003). A motivational science perspective on the role of student motivation in learning and teaching contexts. Journal of Educational Psychology, 95(4), 667–686. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0663.95.4.667
Pintrich, P. R. (2004). A conceptual framework for assessing motivation and self-regulated learning in college students. Educational Psychology Review, 16(4), 385–407. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-004-0006-x
Pintrich, P. R., & Zusho, A. (2007). Student motivation and self-regulated learning in the college classroom. In R. P. Perry & J. C. Smart (Eds.), The scholarship of teaching and learning in higher education: An evidence-based perspective (pp. 731–810). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/1-4020-5742-3_16
Raoofi, S., Tan, B. H., & Chan, S. H. (2012). Self-efficacy in second/foreign language learning contexts. English Language Teaching, 5(11), 60–73. https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v5n11p60
Reeve, J. (2012). A self-determination theory perspective on student engagement. In S. L. Christenson, A. L. Reschly, & C. Wylie (Eds.), Handbook of research on student engagement (pp. 149–172). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-2018-7_7
Reeve, J., Jang, H., Carrell, D., Jeon, S., & Barch, J. (2004). Enhancing students’ engagement by increasing teachers’ autonomy support. Motivation and Emotion, 28, 147–169. https://doi.org/10.1023/B:MOEM.0000032312.95499.6f
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68
Schunk, D. H. (1990). Self-efficacy and achievement behaviors. Educational Psychology Review, 1(3), 173–208. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01322160
Schunk, D. H. (2003). Self-efficacy for reading and writing: Influence of modeling, goal setting, and self-evaluation. Reading & Writing Quarterly, 19(2), 159–172. https://doi.org/10.1080/10573560308219
Schunk, D. H. (2012). Learning theories: An educational perspective (6th ed.). Pearson Education, Inc.
Schunk, D. H., & Pajares, F. (2002). The development of academic self-efficacy. In A. Wigfield & J. S. Eccles (Eds.), Development of achievement motivation (pp. 15–31). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-012750053-9/50003-6
Schunk, D. H., & Pajares, F. (2009). Self-efficacy theory. In K. R. Wentzel & A. Wigfield (Eds.), Handbook of motivation at school (pp. 35–53). Routledge.
Schunk, D. H., & Zimmerman, B. J. (1998). Self-regulated learning: From teaching to self-reflective practice. Guilford Press.
Schunk, D. H., Pintrich, P. R., & Meece, J. L. (2014). Motivation in education: Theory, research, and applications (4th ed.). Pearson.
Stankov, L., Morony, S., & Lee, Y. P. (2014). Confidence: The best non-cognitive predictor of academic achievement? Educational Psychology, 34(1), 9–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/01443410.2013.814194
Usher, E. L., & Pajares, F. (2008). Sources of self-efficacy in school: Critical review of the literature and future directions. Review of Educational Research, 78(4), 751–796. https://doi.org/10.3102/0034654308321456
Vallerand, R. J. (2007). Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in sport and physical activity: A review and a look at the future. In G. Tenenbaum & R. C. Eklund (Eds.), Handbook of sport psychology (pp. 59–83). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118270011.ch3
van Dinther, M., Dochy, F., & Segers, M. (2011). Factors affecting students’ self-efficacy in higher education. Educational Research Review, 6(2), 95–108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2010.10.003
Vieira, E. T., Jr., & Grantham, S. (2011). University students setting goals in the context of autonomy, self-efficacy and important goal-related task engagement. Educational Psychology, 31(2), 141–156. https://doi.org/10.1080/01443410.2010.536508
Zajacova, A., Lynch, S. M., & Espenshade, T. J. (2005). Self-efficacy, stress, and academic success in college. Research in Higher Education, 46(6), 677–706. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11162-004-4139-z
Zimmerman, B. J. (2000). Attaining self-regulation: A social cognitive perspective. In M. Boekaerts, P. R. Pintrich, & M. Zeidner (Eds.), Handbook of self-regulation (pp. 13–39). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-012109890-2/50031-7
Zimmerman, B. J. (2002). Becoming a self-regulated learner: An overview. Theory into Practice, 41(2), 64–70. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15430421tip4102_2
Zimmerman, B. J., & Schunk, D. H. (2001). Self-regulated learning and academic achievement: Theoretical perspectives (2nd ed.). Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
Zimmerman, B. J., & Schunk, D. H. (Eds.). (2011). Handbook of self-regulation of learning and performance. Routledge.
About the authors
- Otmane Omari, PhD in Linguistics and MA in Business Communication, is a professor of English at Abdelmalek Essaâdi University in Morocco. Driven by a deep passion for integrating technology into education, he creates an engaging and dynamic learning environment. As the Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Technology, Innovation, and Education (TIE), he contributes significantly to educational discussions. His research focuses on improving the quality of learning in higher education, fostering lifelong learning skills, and promoting effective problem-solving. Dr. Omari’s commitment to improving learning experiences aligns with his vision of empowering students with skills that go beyond traditional course materials preparing them for the challenges of the modern world. His areas of interest include Self-Regulated Learning, applied linguistics, EFL/ESL, e-learning, self-efficacy, business English, Life Long Learning, and motivation.
otmane.omari@uae.ac.ma
↩︎