In today's world, which is rapidly moving towards digitalization and the expansion of virtual education, understanding the factors influencing effective learning is of vital importance. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between transformational leadership and effective learning in online environments, with the mediating role of learning self-efficacy. This applied and correlational research was conducted among all male and female elementary school teachers in Ardabil City (Districts 1 and 2), comprising a total population of 3,131 teachers. Using Cochran’s formula and a multi-stage cluster random sampling method, a sample of 342 participants was selected. Data were collected through the Bass and Transformational Leadership Questionnaire, the Learning Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, and a researcher-developed Effective Learning Questionnaire. The findings indicated a good model fit. Transformational leadership had a direct and significant effect on effective learning (β = 0.79, p < 0.01). Additionally, transformational leadership had an indirect effect on effective learning through the mediation of learning self-efficacy (β = 0.71, p < 0.01). These results suggest that learning self-efficacy can serve as a mediating variable explaining the relationship between transformational leadership and teachers' effective learning. The findings highlight the importance of enhancing teachers' learning self-efficacy in online learning environments.