Associated factors which influence satisfaction of students on web-based university courses using a structural equation model

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the level of influence of factors that were related to student satisfaction with web-based university courses. The input-process-output model based on systems theory was utilized as a study model: input variables included students, faculty, content materials, and learning environments and process variables included interactions, class participation and learning effects, while output variables included satisfaction with web-based learning. Factors that influence student satisfaction with web-based courses were analyzed by surveying students who took online courses in 2005 and 2014 at University N. An analysis of differences between 2005 and 2014 is used to present ways to enhance the operation of web-based courses. While improving learner satisfaction with web-based courses requires more advanced basic computer skills and seamless internet connections, high-quality online learning content plays an even more critical role. Meanwhile, appropriate learning content and instructor activities emerged as more influential factors in determining satisfaction with web-based learning in 2005 compared to 2014. © 2014 International Information Institute.