Relation of academic hope and approach to learning: Investigating the mediating role of academic self-regulation

The aim of this study was to investigate the mediating role of academic self-regulation in the relationship between academic hope and components of approaches to learning. Participants were 348 high school students (223 girls and 125 boys) which were selected using the random cluster sampling method during 2014-2015 academic years. In order to investigate the variables of research, Self-Regulation Questionnaire (Bouffard et al., 1995), Academic Hope and Learning Approach (Elliot et al., 1999) scale were used. For analyzing the research model, structural equation model and Amos 22 software were used. Results showed that academic hope predicted approach to learning directly and also indirectly through academic self- regulation. In sum, the results of this study indicate the importance and role of academic hope in increasing academic self-regulation and adaptive approaches. Due to the adaptive role of academic hope, educators need to pay special attention to teach these capabilities to students. Also, an increase in the negative attitude toward education and a decrease in the positive expectation of education society today will also increase the need for education and training of capabilities such as hope.