Factors Associated With Online Learning Self-Efficacy Among Students With Disabilities In Higher Education

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined how the prevalence of online learning increases educational outcomes and access for students with disabilities, exploring the factors associated with these learners’ self-efficacy in virtual environment. College students with disabilities (n = 278) were surveyed about their experience with online courses, overall technology competence, and preferred instructional modalities. Online learning self-efficacy (OLSE) was used as the outcome. Factors associated with OLSE were technological competence and delivery preferences. Students with medical disabilities, in comparison to their peers with a psychological and/or learning disability, reported a higher level of OLSE in the virtual environment. These factors collectively accounted for 33.7% of the variance in OLSE (R2 = .36, F = 19.631, p < .001). Improving the accessibility of online learning for students with disabilities will promote best practices in online learning for all students. Accessibility mind-sets have been increasingly called for as higher education institutions are offering online courses.