An examination of factors contributing to student satisfaction in Armenian higher education

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate factors that affect student satisfaction in college environment in Armenian Higher Educational Institutions (AHEIs). Design/methodology/approach - This study used an ex-post facto, non-experimental approach to investigate factors that affected student satisfaction in college environment in AHEIs. Data were collected through a self-reported questionnaire from students in nine public and three private institutions located in different rural and urban areas of Armenia. The sample consisted of 372 respondents from 12 institutions that geographically covered the whole country in order to have a comparatively complete picture. Factors investigated in relation to student satisfaction included: demographics, faculty services, academic experience, students support facilities, campus life, and social integration. Findings - The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software was used to analyze the data. Results of ANOVA indicated significant main effects for a number of demographic variables and student satisfaction. Multiple regression analysis indicated relationship between a number of selected satisfaction measurement dimensions and overall student satisfaction. This study was the first attempt to investigate factors that influence student satisfaction in college environment in Armenia. Research limitations/implications - Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made to AHEIs for their consideration when addressing the needs of their students and any needed support services. Originality/value - This study was the first attempt to investigate factors that influence student satisfaction in college environment in Armenia.