Abstract
BACKGROUND: With the increasing prevalence of online teaching, understanding the dynamics that impact educators' well-being and effectiveness is paramount. This study addresses the interconnected relationships among online teaching competence, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and digital burnout among teachers in the digital learning environment. OBJECTIVES: The primary objectives of this research are to investigate the direct and mediated effects of online teaching competence and self-efficacy on emotion regulation and digital burnout among teachers. Additionally, the study aims to explore the mediating role of emotion regulation in the relationship between self-efficacy and digital burnout. The overarching goal is to provide comprehensive insights into the factors influencing teacher well-being in the online teaching context. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving a convenience sample of educators from a specific university. Participants responded to validated self-report measures assessing online teaching competence, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and digital burnout. Statistical analyses, including regression and mediation analyses, were conducted to examine the relationships among the key variables. RESULTS: The findings reveal significant relationships and effects among the investigated variables. Online teaching competence is a substantial predictor of emotion regulation and digital burnout. Similarly, self-efficacy significantly impacts emotion regulation and digital burnout. Emotion regulation mediates the relationship between online teaching competence, self-efficacy, and digital burnout. These results highlight the intricate connections shaping teachers' experiences in the digital teaching environment. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: In conclusion, this study provides robust evidence supporting the interconnectedness of online teaching competence, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, and digital burnout among teachers. The implications underscore the importance of fostering these competencies through targeted professional development. Educational institutions and policymakers can use these insights to implement strategies that enhance teacher well-being, ultimately promoting a more effective and sustainable online teaching environment.