Task value, self-efficacy and goal orientations: Impact on self-regulated learning, choice and performance among university students

This study, conducted with 184 first-year Belgian psychology students, examines the relations between motivational variables and achievement behaviours. A multiple-goal perspective with approach and avoidance dimensions was considered. Correlational, stepwise multiple regressions and MANOVA were performed. Results from the regressions indicate: (1) a direct effect of motivational variables on self-regulated learning strategies, and a direct effect of self-regulated learning strategies on performance, but no direct influence of motivational variables on performance; and (2) a direct influence of value and learning-approach goal orientation on choice. Results from the first multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with task value and self-efficacy as independent variables only show a main effect of task value on all learning strategies and behavioural outcomes. Results from the second MANOVA assert the positive effect of the endorsement of multiple goals on deep-learning strategies and choice.