Using Exploratory Factor Analysis to Build a Self-Efficacy Scale for Three-dimensional Modeling
Abstract
Research on self-efficacy has provided evidence that it is a moderating factor that positively impacts students’ choices to pursue and persist in engineering. Engineering graphics is seen as the preferred method of communication for the profession, yet to date no instrument is available that measures students’ self-efficacy as it relates to engineering graphics. This paper discusses an exploratory factor analysis conducted to determine the reliability and validity of a self-efficacy scale designed specific to the domain of engineering graphics. Results from this study provided evidence that the instrument developed is reliable and valid for the investigation of students’ self-efficacy as it relates to engineering graphics.