Gian Vittorio Caprara

Academic Self-Efficacy Beliefs and Quality of Experience in Learning.

This study investigated learning activities and associated quality of experience of students with different levels of perceived academic self-efficacy. Two groups were formed out of 130 Italian adolescents (age 15–19), one with high and one with low academic self-efficacy beliefs (31 and 32 participants, respectively). Students provided valuation of academic pursuits and aspirations, and were monitored for one week with experience sampling method (ESM). Attention was paid to the association of learning activities with optimal experience, characterized by high perceived environmental challenges matched by high personal skills, involvement, concentration and intrinsic reward. High self-efficacy students reported higher academic aspirations and pursuits than low self-efficacy students. They also spent more time in homework, and primarily associated learning activities with optimal experience. Results have educational implications in fostering motivation and enjoyment in learning. They also provide empirical support for the combination of self-efficacy beliefs and quality of experience in motivational research.

Alle radici della partecipazione politica : il ruolo di tratti, valori e convizioni di efficacia

To the roots of the political participation: the role of traits, values and effcacy’s beliefs - What are the personal determinants of political success? What capacities are needed to actively contribute to the functioning of democracy? What motives, beliefs, habits may predispose toward effective participation of citizens and successful political activity of elected officials? In accordance with Social Cognitive Theory, the following paper presents the results of a research project that places personal self-efficacy beliefs at the basis of political commitment and participation. The same efficacy beliefs have been shown to play a key mediational role between personality traits, basic values, and political participation. In addition, the practical implications of these findings with respect to the selection of political personnel is highlighted. Key words: politics, participation, self-efficacy, values, motives, mediation