Perceived Social Support as Predictor of University Adjustment and Academic Achievement Amongst First Year Undergraduates in a Malaysian Public University

Authors

  • Maria Chong Abdullah Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
  • Luo Lan Kong Smart Reader International College, Malaysia
  • Abd Rahim Talib Specialist Teachers Training Campus, Teacher Training Institute, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32890/mjli2014.11.4

Keywords:

Academic achievement, university adjustment, social support, undergraduates

Abstract

Purpose â€“ This study was conducted to examine relationships between perceived social support, university adjustment and academic achievement of fi rst semester students enrolled in various undergraduate programs in a Malaysian public university.
 
Methodology â€“ This study employed a quantitative approach with a descriptive correlation design to address the research objectives. The adapted version of the “Interpersonal Support Evaluation List†(1985) and the “Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire†(1999) were used to assess students’ perceived social support and university adjustment respectively. A total of 250 fi rst year undergraduates were selected as respondents using cluster random sampling technique.
 
Findings â€“ Findings revealed a signifi cant and positive relationship between students’ perceived social support and their overall university adjustment as well as all the four adjustment dimensions namely academic adjustment, social adjustment, personal-emotional adjustment, attachment to university, and academic achievement. Results also indicated that students’ overall university adjustment and academic achievement were signifi cant and positively predicted by social support.
 
Significance â€“ This study provides important evidence for undergraduates, lecturers, university administrators, and the community at large regarding the important role of social support in university adjustment and academic performance. It is suggested that a university should provide support services to assist new undergraduates to overcome their adjustment problems.

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Published

25-12-2014

Issue

Vol. 11 (2014): Malaysian Journal of Learning and Instruction (MJLI) Vol. 11, 2014

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Abdullah, M. C., Kong, L. L., & Talib, A. R. (2014). Perceived Social Support as Predictor of University Adjustment and Academic Achievement Amongst First Year Undergraduates in a Malaysian Public University. Malaysian Journal of Learning and Instruction, 11, 59-73. https://doi.org/10.32890/mjli2014.11.4

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Identifiers DOI 10.32890/mjli2014.11.4