Is Learning Really Just Believing? A Meta-Analysis of Self-Efficacy and Achievement in SLA

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Is Learning Really Just Believing? A Meta-Analysis of Self-Efficacy and Achievement in SLA
Language: English
Authors: Goetze, Julia (ORCID 0000-0002-4856-760X), Driver, Meagan (ORCID 0000-0002-6712-4521)
Source: Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching. 2022 12(2):233-259.
Availability: Adam Mickiewicz University Department of English Studies. Faculty of Pedagogy and Fine Arts, Ul. Nowy Swiat 28-30, 62-800 Kailsz, Poland. e-mail: ssllt@amu.edu.pll; Web site: http://pressto.amu.edu.pl/index.php/ssllt
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 27
Publication Date: 2022
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Information Analyses
Descriptors: Second Language Learning, Language Acquisition, Academic Achievement, Self Efficacy, Methods, Beliefs, Self Concept, Self Esteem
ISSN: 2083-5205
2084-1965
Abstract: The positive psychology movement (Seligman, 1998) has contributed to the proclamation of a positive turn in second language acquisition (SLA) (MacIntyre et al., 2016). Within the context of individual differences, "self-efficacy" (Bandura, 1997), an individual's judgment of their capability to achieve goals, has gained particular interest in language learning (e.g., Lake, 2013). The present study meta-analyzes a body of research that has investigated the relationship between second language (L2) self-efficacy and L2 achievement by exploring 1) reporting practices in this domain, 2) the strength and direction of the relationship, and 3) the effects of moderator variables on the self-efficacy-achievement link. A comprehensive literature search uncovered 37 studies, which contributed to a total of 40 independent samples (N = 23,050). The average observed effect in the sample was r = 0.46. A moderator analysis showed systematic variations in the effect size for learners' first language, target language, proficiency level, and both self-efficacy and achievement type. We discuss our findings with respect to theoretical constructs and methodological practices and suggest implications for L2 pedagogy and future research into self-efficacy in SLA.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2022
Accession Number: EJ1354631
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:The positive psychology movement (Seligman, 1998) has contributed to the proclamation of a positive turn in second language acquisition (SLA) (MacIntyre et al., 2016). Within the context of individual differences, "self-efficacy" (Bandura, 1997), an individual's judgment of their capability to achieve goals, has gained particular interest in language learning (e.g., Lake, 2013). The present study meta-analyzes a body of research that has investigated the relationship between second language (L2) self-efficacy and L2 achievement by exploring 1) reporting practices in this domain, 2) the strength and direction of the relationship, and 3) the effects of moderator variables on the self-efficacy-achievement link. A comprehensive literature search uncovered 37 studies, which contributed to a total of 40 independent samples (N = 23,050). The average observed effect in the sample was r = 0.46. A moderator analysis showed systematic variations in the effect size for learners' first language, target language, proficiency level, and both self-efficacy and achievement type. We discuss our findings with respect to theoretical constructs and methodological practices and suggest implications for L2 pedagogy and future research into self-efficacy in SLA.
ISSN:2083-5205
2084-1965