A Phenomenological Study of Motivation in Online Learners and Its Relationship to Self-Awareness

Abstract

Self-regulated learning competencies are of increasing importance to ensure learning success in online learning environments. We investigate the use of digital social nudges in a self-reliant online learning situation to support learners in better managing their self-regulated learning behaviors. We ground our research on dual-process theory and social comparison theory to design social nudges. To evaluate our research model, we conduct an online experiment (N=226). The results show that social nudges positively impact learning outcomes mediated by self-regulated learning behaviors manifested using learning strategies. We found that positive emotions can further strengthen the positive effect of social nudges. Our results help to understand how social nudges can be efficiently used in online learning environments to support learners in better managing their learning processes and achieving learning outcomes. We open new chances for researchers and designers of online learning materials to support online learning processes.