Motivation as a mediator between time management, self-regulated learning, and student performance in online learning: Evidence from Malaysian private higher education institutions

Abstract

This study investigates the mediating role of motivation between time management, self-regulated learning (SRL) and student performance in online learning among Malaysian private higher education institutions (PHEIs). Data from 350 valid responses were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings show that motivation is influenced by both time management and SRL, which in turn predict student performance. Additionally, motivation was found to fully mediate the relationships between time management and performance, and between SRL and performance. These findings highlight the importance of effective time management and self-regulation in strengthening students’ motivation and online learning performance in Malaysian PHEIs.