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Article · Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes · January 22, 2025

DIGITAL TOOLS AND ACADEMIC WRITING: A MODERATED MEDIATION MODEL OF WRITING SELF-EFFICACY

Madina Bekturova, Altnay Zhaitapova, Давронжон Гаипов, Saule Tulepova, Gergana Dyankova

Madina Bekturova
Open via DOIPDF

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of digital writing tools in academic settings has sparked interest in understanding their impact on writing self-efficacy among students, particularly in non-Anglophone countries. This study presents the first-ever application of a moderated mediation model to investigate the influence of digital writing tools on academic writing self-efficacy, incorporating writing engagement as a mediator and technological proficiency as a moderator. In the present study, we tested the following hypotheses: (a) the positive impact of using digital writing tools on writing engagement and academic writing self-efficacy, (b) writing engagement positively influences academic writing self-efficacy as well as mediates the relationship between using digital tools and writing self-efficacy, and (c) technological proficiency moderates the mediated relationship between digital tool use and writing self-efficacy. Based on the data from a survey conducted among 332 postgraduate students of Kazakhstani universities, digital writing tools positively influence writing self-efficacy, with writing engagement playing a significant mediating role. Furthermore, technological proficiency was found to modestly moderate this mediated relationship, suggesting that higher proficiency enhances the positive effects of digital tools on writing self-efficacy. These results highlight the importance of integrating digital writing tools and improving technological skills to enhance academic writing outcomes in non-Anglophone contexts. This study contributes to the existing literature by offering novel insights and a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms through which digital writing tools affect academic writing self-efficacy and engagement, especially in diverse linguistic and cultural settings.

EFL/ESL Teaching and LearningAcademic Writing and PublishingEnglish Language Learning and Teachingdigital writing toolswriting engagementtechnological competence

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