Key Factors Influencing Autonomous Learning Effectiveness of Students at Honghe Vocational and Technical College, Yunnan Province, China
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Abstract
Many secondary vocational students lack effective autonomous learning skills due to psychological and demographic differences, limiting their adaptability and lifelong learning potential. This study examines how demographic factors, self-regulated learning (SRL), self-efficacy, and GRIT influence autonomous learning effectiveness among secondary vocational students in China. UNESCO’s Learning to Be report highlighted student-centered, self-directed learning as essential for adapting to change [1] (UNESCO, 1972), establishing autonomous learning as a global educational priority [1] (UNESCO, 1972; [2] OECD, 2019). SRL enables learners to manage motivation and strategies [3] (Zimmerman, 2002; [4] Karabenick & Zusho, 2015), with stronger self-regulation linked to better outcomes [5] (Berkhout et al., 2015). Self-efficacy strengthens both SRL and autonomous learning [6] (Bandura, 1986; [7] Panadero, 2017), while GRIT—defined as perseverance and passion for long-term goals—supports sustained engagement [8] (Duckworth et al., 2007; [9] Credé et al., 2017). Demographic factors such as gender and age also influence these traits and learning outcomes [10] (Chen, 2020; [11] Huang, 2022). Using a multi-stage probability sampling method, 400 out of 6,770 students from Yunnan Honghe Vocational and Technical College were surveyed, exceeding the minimum sample size of 378 calculated using Yamane’s formula [12] (Yamane, 1967). Statistical analyses showed significant differences in learning effectiveness by gender, major, and age (p ≈ .000). Multiple regression revealed that SRL, self-efficacy, and GRIT all positively impact autonomous learning effectiveness (p-values ranging from .000 to .008). These findings offer empirical evidence to guide educational strategies, emphasizing the importance of fostering SRL, self-efficacy, and perseverance through personalized approaches that support lifelong learning and vocational readiness.
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