From Classroom to Screen: Analyzing the Mechanisms Shaping E-Learning Benefits Amidst COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has reached global proportions, leading to significant shifts in societal norms, including the adoption of online education as a safety measure. This research delves into the factors that drive the advantages associated with e-learning, with a focus on the influences of attitudes towards social distancing, perceived value, and user contentment. Utilizing partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), and a sample of 325 university students from two Asian countries actively participating in e-learning platforms, this research empirically validates the theoretical constructs. Findings demonstrate that perceived value and user contentment are potent drivers of e-learning advantages. Additionally, the roles of emotional and cognitive risk awareness in augmenting attitudes towards social distancing are highlighted. The influence of cabin fever syndrome on both types of risk perception is also significantly evident. The elements of system interactivity and response are found to positively influence perceived worth and user satisfaction. The paper culminates with insights into the theoretical significance and practical applications of the research.