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Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Special Issue on CALL Number 11. July 2025 Pp.380 -392
College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, & King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC). Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
This qualitative study examines the role of self-efficacy and self-regulation in shaping the academic experiences of students learning English as a foreign language (EFL) in online education. The primary objective is to investigate how learners’ beliefs in their capabilities and their use of self-regulatory strategies impact engagement and persistence in digital language learning environments. The study is significant in addressing how psychological factors interact with online learning dynamics—particularly in EFL contexts where learner autonomy is crucial. It further asks: How do EFL students’ self-efficacy and self-regulation influence their motivation and engagement in online language courses? Through virtual semi-structured interviews with four undergraduate EFL students enrolled in online language courses, the study examines how learners perceive their capabilities, manage their learning, and respond to the challenges of online environments. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: confidence through past success, self-motivation and goal setting, coping with isolation and lack of structure, and help-seeking and peer comparison. Findings indicate that students with high self-efficacy are more likely to adopt effective self-regulatory strategies, which in turn promote academic engagement and persistence. The role of social presence emerged as a critical factor, mediating the impact of isolation and enhancing student motivation through peer interaction. The study also underscores the importance of task value and social connection in sustaining learner engagement. Practical recommendations are offered to help educators design online learning experiences that foster student confidence, autonomy, and success in EFL contexts.
Althewini, A. (2025). Navigating Online Language Learning: The Impact of Self-Efficacy and Self-Regulation on Student Success. Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Special Issue on CALL (11) :380 -392
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Dr. Abdulaziz Mohammed Althewini is an Associate Professor at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences and a researcher at King Abdullah International Medical Research Center. His work focuses on medical education, student well-being, and culturally and linguistically responsive academic support. He has authored several peer-reviewed studies on academic advising, admission criteria, and instructional quality in higher education. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5854-8090