Meta-analytical model of the relationship between learning motivation, self-efficacy, and academic achievement in online learning

Jurnal Konseling dan Pendidikan December 30, 2025 Volume 13, Number 4 5 authors

Abstract

The transformation of global education towards e-learning poses challenges to students' motivation and self-efficacy, impacting inequalities in academic achievement. A number of studies indicate that the relationship between motivation, self-confidence, and achievement remains complex and warrants further investigation. This study conducted a meta-analysis to assess the strength of the relationship between motivation, self-efficacy, and academic achievement in the context of digital learning. By analyzing 52  recent studies (2004–2025), we used a randomized effects model to account for heterogeneity between studies. The correlation coefficient reported in each study was converted to Fisher's Z to normalize the distribution of effects. Subsequently, the meta-analytic SEM was performed to test the self-efficacy mediation model. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the combined correlation between motivation and self-efficacy (r = 0.52) and motivation and academic achievement (r = 0.44) exhibited a moderate to strong ffect. The meta- structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis confirmed that self-efficacy mediates a partial influence of motivation on Academic Achievement (β indirect = 0.355, 36% of the total influence). Theoretically, these results strengthen social cognitive theory (Bandura) and self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan) in the field of e-learning. Practically, the results suggest that teachers and institutions should develop interventions that increase students' intrinsic motivation and self-confidence (e.g., through autonomy-supporting learning) and support educational policies that incorporate non-cognitive psychological indicators into the curriculum. This study provides a more accurate estimate of average effects and supports the development of the theory and practice of digital education based on cross-cultural evidence.

Authors

  1. Hermawan Setiawan

    State Cyber and Cryptography Polytechnic

  2. Widodo Widodo

    Universitas Indraprasta PGRI

  3. Merry Lapasau

    Universitas Indraprasta PGRI

  4. Sunar Abdul Wahid

    Universitas Indraprasta PGRI

  5. Acep Musliman

    Universitas Indraprasta PGRI

Keywords

Academic AchievementLearning motivationSelf-efficacyMeta-structural equation modelling

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