During the Covid-19 Pandemic, what Factors Influenced the Acceptance of Blended Learning in Malaysian Private Institutions?

Blended Learning (BL) courses integrate virtual and classroom learning experiences and allow efficient use of resources. Many studies have explored the adoption, acceptance, and use of e-learning in Malaysian private institutions. However, there is a lack of empirical studies on the acceptance of BL, and the use of e-learning in terms of behavioural intention and attitude within the Malaysian context and during the COVID-19 situation, which have forced institutions to conduct classes online. Filling this gap allows a significant contribution to be made, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and the practice of social distancing. The study aims to investigate the factors that influence the acceptance of BL in a private university in Malaysia. Analysis of current literature and Technology Acceptance Model, along with the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, were carried out to formulate the conceptual model of this study. The population of this study are students who have experienced and attended classes online during the COVID-19 situation. The findings indicate that perceived ease of use, social influence, and perceived usefulness have significant positive effects on attitude and behavioural intention. The attitude was found to have a significant positive impact on behavioural intention as well. A random sampling technique was used in this study, and the data was collected from 347 students, then analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science and AMOS software. Recommendations for decision-makers were addressed to ease the use of BL and show students its advantages and usefulness during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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The datasets used in this study are openly available at [repository link] and the source code is available on GitHub at [GitHub link].