Initial training as predictor of students’ motivation and practical skill engagement: mediating impact of learning self-efficacy

ABSTRACT

In a rapidly evolving technology and skill-based economy, the development and engagement in practical skills and motivation among electronic technology education students is key to their career readiness and employability. Thus, this study investigated the relationship between initial training experiences and electronic technology education students’ motivation and engagement in practical skill learning. The study employed cross-section and correlational survey method to elicit data from 177 sample of electronic technology education students through structured questionnaires. Path analysis and mediation analysis were used for the data analysis. Results showed that initial training experiences positively and significantly predicted motivation, and students’ engagement in practical skill learning. Learning self-efficacy was found to mediate the relationship between initial training experiences and motivation. These findings emphasise the importance of well-designed initial training to enhance students’ motivation and engagement in practical skill development. Thus, this study makes significant contribution to extant literatures.

KEYWORDS:

• Initial training
• motivation
• student engagement
• skill acquisition

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ejaita Duke Akpokiniovo

Ejaita Duke Akpokiniovo is a lecturer in Industrial Technical Education (Electrical/Electronic Technology) of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He holds B. Sc, Masters, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Electrical/Electronic Technology Education. He has some scholarly research works to his credit.

Theresa Chinyere Ogbuanya

Theresa Chinyere Ogbuanya is a professor in Industrial Technical Education Department at University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. She is also a senior fellow at School of Education Studies, University of Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa. She has numerous scholarly articles and books to her credit.