Factors Affecting the Acceptance of Online Learning among the Urban Poor: A Case Study of Malaysia

Abstract

Education is an avenue of gaining knowledge and skills that will, in turn, support economic growth. Therefore, as online learning platforms are abundantly available in Malaysia, the urban poor in the Klang Valley have a means of improving their knowledge and skills to generate more income. However, online learning requires technical readiness. As such, this study examined the factors affecting the acceptance of online learning among the urban poor in Malaysia. An acceptance model was developed by integrating the constructs of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) with factors that influence the perceived value of online learning among the urban poor. To assess the reliability of these factors, 293 respondents participated in an online survey. SmartPLS 3.0 was then used to analyse the collected data. We found that performance expectancy (PE), facilitating conditions (FC), and perceived value (PV) positively influenced the behavioural intention to use (BI) online learning. Therefore, the findings of this study provide an understanding of the value and vital factors that impact the acceptance of online learning among the urban poor in the Klang Valley.