Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Research Articles

Internet-based infrastructures and online architectural education on design studios: perceived instructional strategies and students engagement

The current study investigated the impact of perceived instructional strategies in online design studios on student engagement as a multidimensional construct. Given the rapid shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding effective teaching strategies and their impacts on student engagement is crucial for enhancing overall student outcomes. The study also examined the role of learning motivation as a mediator in these relationships. A mixed-methods approach was employed, measuring a second-order construct of student engagement based on three reflective dimensions: cognitive, affective, and behavioral. Qualitative interviews with instructors revealed three main instructional strategies utilized in online design studios: learning by doing, learning with interaction, and learning from feedback. The present study analyzed self-report survey responses from 230 undergraduate architecture students across four major universities in Iran, utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Based on the results, the perceived learning by doing (PLD) and learning with interaction (PLI) significantly improve student engagement. In contrast, the perceived learning from feedback (PLF) fails to influence student engagement directly. Additionally, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation mediated the impact of PLI and PLF on student engagement. These findings highlight the importance of effective instructional strategies in online design studios. Additionally, the results provide valuable insights for future pedagogical practices in online education, offering guidance for instructors aiming to enhance student outcomes in this dynamic learning environment.

Enhancing User Participation in Cultural Heritage through Serious Games: Combining Perspectives from the Experience Economy and SOR Theory

The dissemination and preservation of cultural heritage has attracted much attention globally, and serious games play an important role in cultural heritage dissemination and preservation; however, it is not clear which experiences of serious games are effective in increasing people’s attention to cultural heritage. This study combines the experience economy and stimulus–organism–response (SOR) theory to construct a theoretical model to explore which experiences of serious games influence users’ behavioral intention to care about cultural heritage. We surveyed 302 users who experienced serious games and analyzed the data and measurement model using SPSS 27 and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results showed that the four experiences of serious games (educational, entertaining, escapist, and esthetic) had a significant effect on users’ perceived value and memory and that perceived value and memory significantly influenced users’ participation. In addition, this study found that the entertainment experience was not only a key factor influencing perceived value and memory, but also the most significant factor directly affecting user participation. This finding provides specific recommendations for game developers and cultural heritage organizations to enhance user engagement. Enhancing the four experience dimensions and strengthening users’ perceived value and memory can effectively encourage users to pay attention to cultural heritage through serious games and contribute to the preservation and sustainable development of cultural heritage.

The effect of internal and information integration on Oman container ports’ operational performance: The mediating role of supply chain management practices

This study aims to investigate the relationship between internal and information integration within the supply chain (SCI-INTI and SCI-INFI), supply chain management (SCM) practices, and port operational performance (POP) in Oman’s container ports. Additionally, it explores the mediating role of SCM practices in the relationship between SCI-INTI, SCI-INFI, and POP in Oman. To meet the study’s objectives, a quantitative cross-sectional survey method was used. A total of 377 questionnaires were distributed to managers responsible for supply chain operations in the main departments at Sohar and Salalah ports, yielding 331 usable responses, with a response rate of 88 percent. The data collected were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that both internal and information integration within the supply chain have positive and statistically significant effects on the operational performance of Oman’s container ports (POP). Specifically, Supply Chain Integration with Internal Integration (SCI-INTI) significantly impacts POP (β = 0.249, t = 5.039, p < 0.001), and Supply Chain Integration with Information Integration (SCI-INFI) also significantly affects POP (β = 0.259, t = 4.966, p < 0.001). Additionally, SCI-INTI positively influences Supply Chain Management Practices (SCMP) (β = 0.381, t = 7.674, p < 0.001), as does SCI-INFI (β = 0.484, t = 9.878, p < 0.001). Furthermore, SCMP positively and significantly influences the operational performance of Oman’s container ports (β = 0.424, t = 7.643, p < 0.001). These findings contribute to the literature by emphasizing the significance of internal and information integration within the supply chain and SCM practices as strategic internal resources and capabilities that enhance operational performance in container ports. Understanding these elements enables decision-makers and policymakers within government port authorities and port operating companies to optimize internal resources and capabilities to improve port operational performance.

Sustaining the mobile medical units to bring equity in healthcare: a PLS-SEM approach

BackgroundEquitable access to healthcare for rural, tribal, and underprivileged people has been an emerging area of interest for researchers, academicians, and policymakers worldwide. Improving equitable access to healthcare requires innovative interventions. This calls for clarifying which operational model of a service innovation needs to be strengthened to achieve transformative change and bring sustainability to public health interventions. The current study aimed to identify the components of an operational model of mobile medical units (MMUs) as an innovative intervention to provide equitable access to healthcare.MethodsThe study empirically examined the impact of scalability, affordability, replicability (SAR), and immunization performance on the sustainability of MMUs to develop a framework for primary healthcare in the future. Data were collected via a survey answered by 207 healthcare professionals from six states in India. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was conducted to empirically determine the interrelationships among various constructs.ResultsThe standardized path coefficients revealed that three factors (SAR) significantly influenced immunization performance as independent variables. Comparing the three hypothesized relationships demonstrates that replicability has the most substantial impact, followed by scalability and affordability. Immunization performance was found to have a significant direct effect on sustainability. For evaluating sustainability, MMUs constitute an essential component and an enabler of a sustainable healthcare system and universal health coverage.ConclusionThis study equips policymakers and public health professionals with the critical components of the MMU operational model leading toward sustainability. The research framework provides reliable grounds for examining the impact of scalability, affordability, and replicability on immunization coverage as the primary public healthcare outcome.

Analyzing the Relationship Between Organizational Politics, Emotional Intelligence, and Employee Behavior: A PLS-SEM Modeling

Background This study explores the complex relationship between organizational politics, emotional intelligence and employee behavior in contemporary settings. Organizational politics, which is widespread in organizational settings, has a substantial impact on different aspects of employee behavior. Emotional Intelligence has become a vital factor in individuals' capacity to successfully traverse the complexities of an organization. This study consolidates current material to offer insights into the impact of organizational politics on employee behavior and the mediating role of emotional intelligence in this connection. Methods A survey was undertaken with a sample size of 500 employees hailing from several Information Technology (IT) and Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES) firms in the Dehradun (Uttarakhand) region. The study employed quantitative methodologies to investigate the correlations between Emotional Intelligence, Perceived Organizational Politics and Employee Behavior. The data were evaluated using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to examine the hypothesized correlations and mediation effects. Results The study identified substantial correlations between Emotional Intelligence, Perceived Organizational Politics, and Employee Behavior. Emotional Intelligence was discovered to have a positive impact on Behavioral Dynamics. Perceived Organizational Politics had a substantial influence on both Emotional Intelligence and Behavioral Dynamics. Factors such as Need for Power, Relationship Conflict, Resource Constraints, Role Conflict, and Workforce Diversity were discovered to have an impact on Perceived Organizational Politics. Conclusions The results confirm strong connections between organizational politics, emotional intelligence, and employee behavior, highlighting the significance of these concepts in comprehending employee behavior in organizational environments. The study proposes that enhancing employees' emotional intelligence can alleviate the adverse effects of organizational politics, resulting in enhanced behavioral dynamics. The study also addresses the limits, outlines potential areas for further research, and highlights the managerial implications. It suggests that firms should prioritize the development of emotional intelligence to cultivate a favorable work environment.

Pengaruh Distrupsi Digitalisasi Terhadap Preferensi Konsumen: Studi Kasus pada Mahasiswa Tazkia di Pasar Dramaga

The purpose of this research is to analyze the influence of digital disruption on consumer preferences in product or service selection. This study utilizes the Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) model. The results indicate that digital disruption significantly affects consumer preferences. Changes in consumer behavior triggered by digital advancements, such as the ease of shopping through online platforms, are crucial factors influencing consumer preferences. However, in this context, the influence of price on consumer preferences is not significant. Although important, price is not the primary factor in purchasing decisions, as other factors such as product quality, service, and halal labeling have a greater influence. Halal certification is also an important consideration for consumers, as it reflects values of halalness and cleanliness that are deemed important. This study provides valuable insights for businesses in understanding the impact of digital disruption on consumer behavior and implementing appropriate marketing strategies to enhance consumer preferences.

The Influence of Institutional Culture on Organisational Effectiveness in Selected Public Universities in Uganda

Organisational effectiveness is a vital component of universities and other organisations because it leads to various positive outcomes, including customer satisfaction, employee relationships, improved business processes, learning and growth, and profitability. However, despite its importance, Ugandan universities are currently struggling with low levels of organizational effectiveness. Therefore, this study assessed the influence of institutional culture on organisational effectiveness of selected public universities in Uganda. Specifically, the study assessed the influence of artefacts, espoused belief and values and basic underlying assumptions culture dimensions on organisational effectiveness. The study employed a quantitative approach, utilizing a correlational research design. With a small population of 265, the researchers aimed to survey the entire population although those who provided responses were 231 participants. The data were collected using a close ended self-administered questionnaire. The data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPls to test casual linkages between the variables. The results indicated that espoused beliefs and values, and basic underlying assumptions had a positive and significant impact on organisational effectiveness in public universities. The study concluded that espoused beliefs and values, and basic underlying assumptions are essential for organisational effectiveness of public universities, and basic underlying assumptions are vital for organisational effectiveness in public universities. The study recommended that university managers should promote espoused beliefs and values through enabling openness and learning, team work and adherence to rules, and basic underlying assumptions of mutual responsibility and shared objectives, and participation in decision making in the management of universities

The impact of acid mine drainage on the environment and social society

Abstract This study aims to analyse what factors can affect the impact of acid mine drainage on the environment and society. With a sample of research respondents being the community around the company, totalling 200 people. The variables used consist of the environmental variable (X3) as the dependent variable and independent variables, namely acid mine drainage (X1) and community social (X2), with each variable being measured by its indicators. This questionnaire is used to measure Statements compiled using the Likert scale with five respondent answers to consumer satisfaction, namely: Strongly Agree (SS), Agree (S), Hesitant (RR), Disagree (TS), and Strongly Disagree (STS). The data analysis technique used is partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) which is used to predict and develop theory. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) is a robust and versatile statistical technique commonly employed for data analysis. PLS-SEM is particularly well-suited for exploratory research and when dealing with complex models, small sample sizes, or non-normal data distributions. It allows researchers to simultaneously assess the measurement and structural models, making it an effective tool for understanding complex relationships between variables. Based on the results of the analysis, it is known that Acid mine drainage affects the environment and society with a rms theta model of 0.470.

Assessing moderated mediation effects influencing consumer acceptance of cell-cultured Meat: A PLS-SEM modeling approach

Cell-cultured meat, as a novel food, is often met with limited consumer understanding, leading to a predominantly conservative attitude and lower acceptance. To gain insights into the key factors influencing consumer acceptance of cell-cultured meat, this study constructs a moderated mediation model to examine the relationship between food techneophobia (FTN), food disgust sensitivity (FDS), and acceptance of cell-cultured meat. Moreover, we investigate the mediating effects of perceived benefits (PB) and perceived risk (PR), as well as the moderating effect of information acquisition (IA). A field survey was conducted in 2020 with 4,841 Chinese consumers in households. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that PB is the strongest positive influencing factor of acceptance. FTN has a better predictive effect on acceptance than FDS. Both FTN and FDS can reduce PB and increase PR, thereby lowering acceptance. Partial mediation of PB and PR between FTN and acceptance of cell-cultured meat is observed, while full mediation of PB and PR exists between FDS and acceptance. IA can mitigate the negative impact of FDS on PB, thereby enhancing consumer acceptance of cell-cultured meat. This study contributes to the current literature by employing PLS-SEM as an assessment model for examining direct and mediation relationships. Understanding the factors that shape consumers’ perceptions and influnce their acceptance is essential for effective forecasting and strategic decision-making in the novel food industry.

Pengaruh Green Marketing terhadap Purchase Intention Melalui Brand Image Sebagai Variabel Intervening

This study aims to determine the effect of Green Marketing on purchase intention of Ikea products through brand image as an intervening variable. This study used a quantitative method with the analytical technique used, namely Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) analysis. The sampling technique used is the non-probability sampling technique, with a total of 400 respondents participating. The results of this study are that green marketing has a positive and significant effect on purchase intention, green marketing has a positive and significant effect on brand image, brand image has a positive and significant effect on purchase intention, and green marketing has a positive and significant effect on purchase intention through brand image as an intervening variable on Ikea products.

Assessing the suitability of groundwater resources based on farmers’ predicted intentions and human–water feedbacks

In this study, a behavioral −hydrological simulation modeling framework is developed to explore the functioning of human-water systems. The main objective is to identify the psycho-social factors affecting water conservation intentions among farmers, and then realize the interactions and bidirectional feedback between humans and water resources. For this purpose, the agent-based modeling (ABM) and extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) is recruited to reflect on the agents’ behaviors. As the first step, the framework of the extended TPB together with the agent behavior was designed via field researches through the completion of 169 questionnaires upon proportional-to-size (PPS) random sampling. The partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) is then implemented, at the second step, to analyze the data and obtain the weights of the extended TPB constructs. The results reveal that the constructs supplemented to the TPB, including moral norms (MNs) and perceived risk (PR), could have significant effects on water conservation intentions and behaviors among farmers. At the last step, the farmers and their decision-making as the dynamic elements by obtaining feedbacks of water resources were modeled using the ABM. To evaluate the proposed framework, the recorded data of groundwater fluctuations and cultivated areas in the Lenjanat plain is utilized and compared with the socio-hydrological simulation modeling outcomes using the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) coefficient. Then, five scenarios are defined to shed light on the changes in the agent behavior on the aquifer suitability, including water consumption rate and groundwater levels in the aquifer. The results correspondingly demonstrated that merging the second and third scenarios in an effort to raise the prices of crops with low water need along with the increase in utility costs (here, water and electricity) could lead to a 75% increase of farmers’ income and a 21.5% reduction in the surface and groundwater uses in this region, implying the highest level of water conservation among other scenarios.

Appraisal model on how accounting data analytics impacts public sector sustainability reporting

The current manuscript establishes and validates a conceptual framework that focuses on the correlation between accounting data analytics (ADA) and the quality of digital sustainability reporting (QDSR). Moreover, it aims to examine how the sustainable green internal control system (SGICS) facilitates the relationship between ADA and QDSR. The current manuscript employed a three-pronged methodology comprising of expert interviews, a literature review, and a self-administered survey, in sequential sequence. To determine the measuring scales and relevant concerns, the qualitative methodology originally involved conducting several semi-structured interviews with specialists and doing a thorough examination of the relevant literature. In the quantitative phase, statistical data were collected by two-wave paper-and-pencil surveys given to respondents in Vietnamese public sector organizations. The survey was conducted using a snowball and convenience sampling method. The data analysis was conducted utilizing the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique with the assistance of SmartPLS 4.1.0.3. The statistical results validated the significantly positive connection between ADA and QDSR. This link was partially mediated by SGICS.

“Whether and how digital celebrities make us hungry for travel?”—An exploration of broadening and constructing perspectives on gastronomic tourism

AbstractThis study explored the influence of digital celebrities on gastronomic tourism through the lens of the broaden‐and‐build theory. Utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) and a case study focused on TikTok, the research examined how consumers' subjective well‐being (SWB) affects para‐social interaction, novelty seeking, and audience participation, and how these factors, in turn, influence behavioral intention in the domains of food and travel. The results validated the proposed hypotheses, underscoring the importance of SWB in shaping behavioral intention within gastronomic tourism driven by digital celebrities. This paper enhances the current literature by elucidating the role of digital celebrities in gastronomic tourism and offers practical insights for marketers and tourism professionals on optimizing the influence of digital celebrities to improve the gastronomic tourism experience.

Unveiling Shopee App Continuance Use: Insights from Malaysian Shoppers

The popularity and acceptance of mobile shopping apps have surged widely due to mobile technology advancement and the COVID-19 outbreak. Retaining customers would be challenging for all mobile shopping app platform operators, particularly in the post-Covid era. However, research on the continuance of mobile shopping apps must be addressed. Hence, the Shopee mobile shopping app was adopted as a case study to examine antecedent factors of continuance intention leading to its continuance use among consumers. This quantitative study was conducted in Klang Valley, Malaysia, and data was collected via a self-administered Google Form. The study included 386 respondents and was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM). Customer loyalty, the success quality factors of the information system, incentives, trust, and satisfaction positively affect Shopee's mobile shopping app's continuance intention. Furthermore, it is found that continuance intention does indeed have a crucial effect on continuance use. However, the study reported that perceived enjoyment did not influence continuance intention. The objective of this research is achieved as it manages to generate valuable knowledge on continuance intention and use. This paves the way for more effective development of sustainable user retention strategies.

Understanding factors affecting non-participants’ interest in community-supported agriculture

Community-supported agriculture (CSA) has emerged as a viable solution for addressing the agricultural challenges faced by countries like Indonesia. This study uses the well-established unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2) model to examine the interest in CSA of potential customers in Indonesia. A standardized questionnaire was distributed to 1200 respondents, and the data were analyzed using structural equation model-partial least square (SEM-PLS) in SmartPLS 4.0 software. The results capture potential CSA consumer interest and will help to improve CSA development strategies in Indonesia. The model explains 44.4% of customers’ intentions, and identifies performance expectancy as the decisive factor in customers’ willingness to participate in CSA. Performance expectancy (0.292), hedonic motivation (0.262), social influence (0.259), and facilitating conditions (0.086) positively influence customers’ interest in participating in a CSA program. The adoption of CSA programs by both farmers and customers could be increased by implementing regulations that provide tax incentives and subsidies, offering training on sustainable farming practices, facilitating the establishment of distribution channels, and establishing guidelines for fair price and quality standards. This study shows the high potential for the implementation of CSA in Indonesia. It could also be used as a foundation for the development of new policies regarding sustainable agriculture markets in Indonesia.

Impact of the Supply Chain on Sustainable and Business Performance During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The main objective of this empirical study is to provide empirical evidence that allows quantifying the impact of the supply chain on sustainable and firm performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. An electronic survey was applied to collect information on 65 manufacturing firms selected through simple random sampling, using the statistical technique of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the data obtained using the SmartPLS 4.0 software. Furthermore, the analysis carried out in this study identifies a need for more theoretical and, above all, empirical evidence in this area, which prevents the generalization of the results obtained. Likewise, the results suggest that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the supply chain positively impacted sustainable performance. However, an adverse effect was also detected on firm performance, so it is possible to conclude that the COVID-10 pandemic substantially improved the sustainable performance of manufacturing companies. However, it also generated a decrease in their level of firm performance.

Why is Vietnam a motorcycle nation? A transport psychology study

This article investigates the reasons why people use motorcycles in two Vietnamese megacities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). The research targets university students. The various factors that lead students to use motorcycles, as well as the linkages between those factors, are assessed through a statistical technique known as Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Conceptually, this study is guided by an extended version of the Theory of Planned Behaviour, a well-established socio-psychological framework. We find that widespread motorcycle use among students is linked to behavioural beliefs, normative beliefs, and control beliefs. Motorcycles are variously seen as convenient, inexpensive, fun, flexible, modern, and wonted – whereas factors such as health, safety, status, and environmental impact are irrelevant. But motorcycle use is also determined by habit and values (progressive or conservative). In fact, the effect of these two additional constructs is larger than the effect of beliefs. In addition, we find that higher income students, those who come from the provinces, and those who are more attached to cars are more prone to using motorcycles as well.

Influencing Factors on Tourists’ Intentions for Sustainable Tourism Destinations: Moderating Effects of Financial Constraints and Moral Reflectiveness

ABSTRACTThis study investigates the relationships between environmental awareness, travel motivations, tourism knowledge, and intentions to choose sustainable destinations. Using a survey of 495 participants and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM), we examine how financial constraints and moral reflectiveness moderate these relationships. Our findings indicate a strong positive correlation between environmental values and support for sustainable tourism. Travel motivations, knowledge about sustainable tourism, and a positive environmental attitude all significantly contribute to a tourist's intention to travel sustainably. Interestingly, gender moderates the influence of travel motivations on environmental values, while moral reflection moderates the link between environmental values and the intention to support sustainable tourism. Financial constraints did not have a significant moderating effect. Our study provides valuable insights for stakeholders in the tourism industry, highlighting the importance of aligning strategies with tourist motivations and emphasizing environmental benefits to encourage responsible travel practices.

Drivers of housing developers’ perception on future construction reuse material premium for wood

The construction sector has significant environmental footprints due to its extensive con- sumption of resources, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation. Strategies like ex- panding the reuse of construction materials may contribute towards the sector’s environmen- tal objectives. Enhancing the reuse of wood, a material associated with low environmental impacts, may further improve the sector’s environmental outcomes. However, at this point, reuse of wood materials is marginal. Understanding the willingness of market agents to embark on such use will aid in policy and market development. This study examines the behavioral and institutional factors that affect the premium of housing developers for the use of reused wood materials in the construction of future residential and leisure buildings. It is based on a novel concept known as the Construction Reuse Material Premium (CRP). A conceptual model is developed from a comprehensive theoretical framework based on both Theory of Planned Behavior and Institutional Theory. Data were collected through a cross- sectional survey in fall 2022, targeting Norwegian housing development companies. Survey data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that housing developers’ attitudes, regulatory and market conditions, and company size negatively influence expected CRP, suggesting developers foresee a greater shift in their willingness to accept costs for reused materials compared to consumer willing- ness to pay. In contrast, stakeholder influence and positive subjective norms toward reuse are associated with a more favorable market outlook for buildings using reused materials.

Antecedent research on cross-border E-commerce consumer purchase decision-making: The moderating role of platform-recommended advertisement characteristics

Relying on the development of big data, internet technology, and digital trade, consumers are seeking cross-border e-commerce platforms increasingly. Platform-based advertising communication, characterized by low cost and wide coverage, is notable as one of the marketing strategies favored most within general cross-border e-commerce platforms. It furnishes consumers with abundant shopping options while it exerts influence on their purchasing decisions concurrently. Using Behavioral Reasoning Theory to explore in-platform advertisements' effect on consumer purchasing decisions in cross-border e-commerce platforms, this study introduces advertising features as moderating variables. From the perspectives of self-efficacy, behavioral rationality, and inclusiveness, a behavioral reasoning model for consumer purchasing decisions is constructed. This paper focuses on cross-border e-commerce platform consumers as the research object, and uses Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the data and validate the model. The results show that self-efficacy and behavioral rationality can have a direct effect on consumers' purchase decision-making behaviors, while self-efficacy plays a significant mediating role between behavioral reasonableness and purchase decision-making behaviors. Inclusiveness has a significant direct effect on self-efficacy and behavioral reasonableness; moreover, advertisement characteristics have a significant negative moderating effect on inclusiveness and behavioral reasonableness-adoption. This study revealed the influencing mechanisms of consumers' purchasing decision behavior on cross-border e-commerce platforms, and expands the scope of Behavioral Reasoning Theory's application. Further, it provides valuable insights for the development of cross-border e-commerce platforms that have both theoretical and practical significance.