Enhancing E-learning through Facebook Groups: The Mediating Role of Student Engagement
Mollika GhoshSchool of Business, Bangladesh Open University, Gazipur, Bangladesh
Email: mollikag.du@gmail.com
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Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore whether higher educational
institutes' e-learning programs on Facebook groups enhance Students' intention to
use (IU) E-learning Programs or not by identifying influential determinants. By
drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory of
Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), Theory of Reasoned Action
(TRA), and Student Engagement (SE) theory, this study assessed the role of SE in
e-learners’ IU on Facebook perspectives.
Methodology: This research applies quantitative research methodology using
non-probability purposive sampling of a total of 211 higher secondary to
post-graduate students in higher educational institutes, private and public
universities in Bangladesh who are familiar and associated with e-learning
programs of Facebook groups. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and mediation
analysis as the data analysis method have been implemented by applying
Co-Variance Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM).
Findings: The result reveals that perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived
usefulness (PU) from TAM, and social influence (SI) from the UTAUT model
significantly affecting students' intention to use (IU) Facebook groups, with the
strong effect of mediation of students' engagement (SE), except for the
insignificant impact of hedonic motivation (HE).
Practical Implications: Following the studies' implications and future
recommendations, educators and e-learning providers should make Facebook
groups more effective and enjoyable by integrating engagement with educational
usage.
Originality/Value: The originality of this study is in extending the four separate
theories and models in enhancing students' future use of Facebook groups for
e-learning programs, with the engagement level as a mediator in 'Meta.'
Limitations: The present study employs a non-probability sampling method
without the consideration of cross-cultural concerns and socio-demographic
factors, focusing on other social media. Drawing on these issues, future academics
should approach PLS-SEM, LISREL, and workable moderating variables.