How Perceived Goal Attainment Shapes Student Satisfaction: The Chain Mediating Roles of Competence Acquisition, Learning, and Infrastructure

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 11:45 am - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Roundtable 6

Abstract

This study examines how perceived goal attainment shapes student satisfaction through the mediating roles of competence acquisition, curriculum and learning, and infrastructure and daily life. Based on survey data from 2,981 undergraduates at 13 Chinese universities, PROCESS Model 6 revealed multiple significant chain mediation pathways. Findings show that perceived goal attainment indirectly enhances satisfaction via both academic development and campus experience. By unpacking how student-centered perceptions connect to broader success outcomes, this study offers a nuanced model for evaluating postsecondary impact. The results contribute to international discussions on rethinking student success metrics and provide actionable insights for improving institutional support structures in diverse higher education contexts.

Authors

• Yan Chunshun, East China Normal University

• Mengting Qian, East China Normal University

• Tianyi Sun, East China Normal University

• Shiqi Teng, Jishou University