Original scientific paper

Tourism graduate students’ satisfaction with online learning

Doris Gomezelj ; University of Primorska, Faculty of tourism studies Turistica, Portorož, Slovenia
Žana Čivre ; University of Primorska, Faculty of tourism studies Turistica, Portorož, Slovenia

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the benefits and problems when introducing e-learning in study processes, to present and analyse several dimensions of students’ satisfaction with online learning and to contribute to a clear overview of this topic. Many academics in the fields of tourism are not very favourable disposed to introduce online learning into their courses and modules. With this paper we would like to encourage them, as students are mostly satisfied with the use of virtual environment for their lessons. The primary question is ‘‘what are the factors that influence the students’ satisfaction with learning in the online environment?’’ In this study, the explored factors were (1) Personality of students, (2) E-learning properties, and (3) E-classroom properties. A survey methodology was used and validated items from previous relevant research work were adopted. First, the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed, and second the results of the EFA were confirmed by CFA, using a structural equation modelling. We empirically developed and tested a new model, which identifies predictors of students’ satisfaction with online learning. These results signify a valuable feedback to institutions offering online classes and to educators evaluating satisfaction of their students and help them to planning to offer an efficient and flexible online education courses. Identifying the most relevant factors of students’ satisfaction entails important issues for educators.

Keywords

e-learning; blended learning; student satisfaction; Slovenia

Hrčak ID:

84561

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/84561

Publication date:

12.7.2012.

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