Self-Efficacy of Students Taking the English Writing 3 Course in an Online Learning Setting

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the self-efficacy of students taking the English Writing 3 online tutorials at Universitas Terbuka. This study applied a quantitative approach and survey method was used to collect data. A single-stage sampling procedure was adopted to collect information about student self-efficacy. Using a questionnaire to collect data, a thorough understanding of student self-efficacy was developed. Student self-efficacy was scored on a five-point scale. The research participants were students taking the English Writing 3 online tutorials. Of 650 students, 233 students completed and returned the questionnaires. Descriptive analytics were used to describe and summarize the data in order to provide the ground for finding new facts. The findings indicated that the majority of students had high self-efficacy. The students demonstrated sufficient ability, confidence, and resilience to accomplish certain tasks that were necessary for their learning This study confirmed that male and female students did not significantly differ in self-efficacy. It was found that there may be a link between age (maturity) and self-efficacy. In addition, self-efficacy could be attributed to previous learning experience. It was apparent from this study that self-efficacy was dynamic; self-efficacy development and growth were likely influenced by student learning progressions. The present study has provided a deeper insight into the nature of students learning English writings in an online distance learning environment.