TY  - EJOU
AU  - Li, Xiaohua 
AU  - Li, Fuqiang 
AU  - Li, Wenjin 

TI  - Learning cognition, attitude, and academic performance: The mediation role of executive ability
T2  - Journal of Psychology in Africa

PY  - 
VL  - 
IS  - 
SN  - 1815-5626

AB  - This study investigated how learning cognition influences college students’ academic performance, focusing on the mediating role of learning attitude and the sequential mediating role of executive ability and learning attitude. Data were from the Tsinghua University’s “Chinese College Students Learning and Development Tracking Study” project (N = 766; 41.37% female; mean age = 20 years, SD = 1.2 years). Results from panel data analysis showed that learning cognition was associated with higher academic performance. Learning attitude positively mediated this relationship. Moreover, learning attitude and executive ability served as positive sequential mediators linking learning cognition to academic performance. These findings add to self-regulation theory by demonstrating that executive ability serves as a key behavioral mechanism translating cognition and attitude into academic outcomes. Based on these findings, student development support services should promote initiatives for integrated development of cognition, attitude, and willpower in the learning process.
KW  - Learning cognition factors; learning attitude; executive ability; academic performance

DO  - 10.32604/jpa.2026.079470