STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION TOWARDS ONLINE LEARNING IN A PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN MALAYSIA DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Most universities have implemented an online learning system to ensure that students, particularly those who are pursuing advanced degrees, can continue their education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Converting from traditional face-to-face classes to online mode is not a simple process. Students must adapt to the rapid changes and workload, which are mandatory for them to participate in. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that contribute to students' satisfaction with online learning, specifically on perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social interaction, social presence and motivation. A quantitative study was conducted on 71 postgraduate coursework students at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu to determine the relationship between online learning satisfaction and the five variables. The findings indicated that only perceived ease of use and motivation could enhance online learning satisfaction. The study discovered that the majority of students were satisfied with online learning due to the convenience of attending such classes and their motivation to participate in those classes. Further research is recommended to focus on improving online education through reduction of stress and depression, particularly during pandemics.