The Potential of Academic Self-Concept for Academic Achievement

Academic self-concept is defined as how a student feels about oneself and one's ability within academic setting. Academic self-concept is found to influence not only the school-related activities and achievement, but also the future goals and academic aspirations of students and well-being in general. Given the crucial role of academic self-concept in student's performance and well-being, this exploratory study aims to investigate the influence of academic self-concept on academic achievement of students (180 higher secondary students; 50% girls; aged between 14-17) in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu. Academic Self-concept was measured by the standardized Academic Self-Concept Scale while Academic Achievement was measured by annual marks obtained in the current academic year (2014-15). Results show a positive correlation between academic self-concept (ASC) and academic achievement (AA). Gender and domicile are found to influence the correlation between ASC and AA. Findings highlight the need to adapt ASC to achieve AA rather than the traditional and stressful methods, and thus envisioning a positive learning context that enhances student well-being.