Differences in Self-Regulated Learning Between Gifted Students, Students with Special Needs and Other Students in Slovenian Schools

Abstract

Self-regulated learning strategies play a crucial role in learning progress and academic achievement of different groups of students. The purpose of the present study is to investigate differences in the use of self-regulatory strategies among a sample of 1,495 students, aged 12 to 15 years, representing three groups: gifted students, students with special needs, and other students. The theoretical framework for the study is Pintrich's (1991) model of self-regulated learning. Data were collected using the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ). Results indicated that gifted students scored significantly higher on the MSLQ subscales of motivation and learning strategies than students with special needs and other peers. Special needs students reported lower intrinsic and extrinsic goal orientation and weaker self-efficacy in learning and achievement than other students. There were no significant differences between these two groups on the MSLQ learning strategies subscales. Positive and statistically significant associations between the MSLQ subscales and final grades in three school subjects (Slovenian, mathematics, and foreign language) were also confirmed. We discuss the implications of our findings for future research and the educational context that contributes most to the development of self-regulated learning in all groups of students.