Development and Validation of the Sources of Research Self-Efficacy Scale for College Students

• In Event: Measurement of Motivation and Cognitive Constructs

Abstract

Research self-efficacy plays an important role in college students’ academic and career development. In this study, we apply social cognitive theory to the development and validation of the Sources of Research Self-Efficacy (SRSE) scale, a new instrument designed to measure the four main sources of research self-efficacy. We describe the development process. Using responses from 339 undergraduate and graduate students, we then present initial validity evidence for the scores from this instrument. Our results suggest that research self-efficacy is influenced by multiple sources which can be measured in a useful manner by quality instruments such as the SRSE. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of taking a multi-source approach to measuring research self-efficacy.

Authors

• Eli Andrew Jones, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author

• Leigh M. Harrell-Williams, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author

• Luke Walden, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author

• Justine Piontek, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author