Self-Regulated Learning and Research Attitudes: A Correlational Study of Graduate Students’ Perspectives

Abstract

This research was conducted to explore the relationship between self-regulated learning and graduate students’ attitudes toward research. The central objective of the study was to examine how self-regulated learning contributes to and influences students’ dispositions toward research-related activities. To address this aim, the researchers adopted a descriptive correlational research design, which allowed for the investigation of relationships between the variables without manipulation. The target population comprised MPhil and PhD students enrolled in the education departments of nine universities located in the Lahore District. From this population, a stratified random sampling technique was applied to ensure fair representation, and a sample of 400 graduate students was selected. Data collection was carried out using two research instruments, both constructed on a five-point Likert scale, specifically designed to measure the levels of self-regulated learning and attitudes toward research among the participants. For data analysis, the researchers employed descriptive statistical methods to summarize the general trends, Pearson’s correlation coefficient to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between the two variables, and linear regression analysis to identify the predictive power of self-regulated learning on research attitudes. The results of the study highlighted a statistically significant and positive correlation between self-regulated learning and students’ attitudes toward research, indicating that higher levels of self-regulation are associated with more favorable research dispositions. Furthermore, regression analysis confirmed that self-regulated learning, along with its underlying dimensions, serves as a strong and significant predictor of students’ attitudes toward research, emphasizing its vital role in shaping graduate learners’ orientation and engagement in research activities.