Malaysian University Students Research Articles

Examining factors influencing university students’ adoption of generative artificial intelligence: a cross-country study

ABSTRACT The introduction of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has transformed the way university students learn. To understand the factors that affect the adoption of GenAI among university students, we proposed a comprehensive research model based on the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2), along with personal factors customized for GenAI. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to collect data from university students in Malaysia and China through an online questionnaire, yielding a total of 500 valid responses. The data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares method to assess the influence of various factors on GenAI adoption. Our findings reveal notable differences in the factors affecting GenAI adoption between the two countries, with the Malaysian group showing a more diverse range of influencing factors compared to the Chinese group. This study highlights the importance of considering country-specific differences when devising strategies for the adoption of GenAI. By integrating UTAUT2 with personal factors and conducting a cross-country comparative analysis, this study offers significant insights into how factors influencing GenAI adoption vary between countries. These insights can be valuable for university stakeholders.

Influence of AI-driven educational tools on critical thinking dispositions among university students in Malaysia: a study of key factors and correlations

Influence of AI-driven educational tools on critical thinking dispositions among university students in Malaysia: a study of key factors and correlations

The Antecedents of Recycling Behaviour Among Online Consumers Concerning E-Commerce Packaging Waste

The increasing proliferation of e-commerce has resulted in a significant rise in packaging waste, which poses numerous environmental challenges that necessitate urgent attention. Understanding the factors driving consumers’ recycling behaviour is crucial to developing effective strategies to mitigate the environmental impact. The current study aims to examine the antecedents of recycling behaviour among Malaysian online consumers concerning e-commerce packaging waste by applying the Cognitive-Affective-Behavioural model. Empirical data were collected from 339 Malaysian university students. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was subsequently employed to test the proposed model. The SEM results confirmed that environmental knowledge directly and positively influenced recycling behaviour. Environmental concern and attitude served as serial mediators, which sequentially delineated the indirect relationship. The present study advanced the existing literature on recycling behaviour by implementing robust approaches to statistically examining the impacts and interrelationships of the key constructs influencing recycling behaviour among online consumers concerning e-commerce packaging waste.

Indoor Air Quality in Laboratories and Its Relationship with Psychological Performance Among University Students in Malaysia

Introduction: Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in work environments can reduce productivity and decrease overall performance. This study examines IAQ in university laboratories and its relationship with psychological performance among students in Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November 2023 in six laboratories at a Malaysian university, categorised into chemical and non-chemical. A total of 117 students aged 18 to 40 participated. IAQ was measured in real-time for 8 hours during weekdays using instruments for particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), airborne microorganisms, carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature in °C, relative humidity (RH), and air movement. Psychological performance was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE). Data analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis, One-Way ANOVA, and Chi-Square tests. Results and Discussion: Significant differences in IAQ parameters were observed for PM2.5 (p=0.007), PM10 (p=0.020), CO2 (p=0.024) and RH (p=0.043). Psychological distress affected 41.9% of students based on the predefined threshold. High CO levels (≥0.67 ppm) and elevated temperatures (≥23.28°C) were significantly associated with increased psychological distress (p=0.011). Students exposed to these conditions were 1.3 times more likely to experience distress (OR=1.3). Conclusion: Specific IAQ parameters, particularly CO and temperature, critically impact students’ psychological well-being. Improving IAQ by reducing CO levels and maintaining optimal temperatures may enhance mental health and performance. Improving IAQ by reducing CO levels and maintaining optimal temperatures may enhance mental health and performance. However, external factors such as personal stressors could not be entirely controlled.

WHY SELFIE? GENDER INVARIANCE IN MOTIVES FOR TAKING AND POSTING SELFIES

The study of motivation to engage in media-related behavioral addictions requires more research attention. Studies had identified generic motives across different types of media-related behavioral addictions, while other studies have revealed unique motives that are only applicable in specific media-related behavioral addictions. The current study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Motives for Taking and Posting Selfies Scale (MTPSS). A total of 207 university students in Malaysia were recruited to participate in this study, with 98 males (47.3%) and 109 females (52.7%), aged between 19 and 24 years old (M = 20.92, SD = 1.23). The results support the original four-factor structure of the MTPSS, namely appraisal-seeking self-presentation, entertainment, status-updating self-presentation, and documentation. In terms of reliability, the MTPSS demonstrated good internal consistency. The gender invariance of MTPSS was tested in configural, metric, scalar, and residual invariance models, supporting the notion that males and females responded similarly to the items of the MTPSS. Overall, the psychometric evidence suggests that the MTPSS is a valid and reliable tool for identifying motives of taking and posting selfies. With evidence of reliability, validity, and gender invariance, the MTPSS is found to be effective in understanding the motivational drivers of selfie-taking and posting behaviors.

Knowledge and attitudes on anemia and menstrual health among Malaysian female university students

Anemia is a significant public health concern, particularly among young female adults due to its potential impact on reproductive health. This study investigated the association between anemia-related knowledge, attitudes, menstrual health, and anemia status among Malaysian university students. This was a cross-sectional study named “SCARF” - Study to Combat Anemia - Research for Female Students, involving 674 university students in Malaysia. Anemia status was determined based on haemoglobin level, while knowledge, attitude and menstrual health were measured using validated questionnaires. The mean menarche age of students in this study was 12.1 ± 1.21 years. Students who were anemic had significantly longer menstrual cycle duration (P = 0.034) and more days with heavy flow (P = 0.038). Most students had poor knowledge (44.5%) and attitudes (84.1%) towards anemia. Students with good knowledge were 1.1 times more likely to have better anemia status compared to those with poor knowledge (95% CI: 1.0–1.2, P = 0.049). This study highlighted a lack of practical application of the knowledge to dietary habits. Collaborative efforts between educators and healthcare providers are crucial in developing a comprehensive strategy, such as interventions to prioritise educational initiatives and practical support to enhance overall menstrual health among female students.

Social work programs in Malaysian public universities: an analysis of barriers to producing competent social workers

ABSTRACT The University of Science Malaysia (USM) has developed a social work program for in the Social Welfare Department officers since 1975 to produce practically competent social workers. Courses offered at public universities should include relevant knowledge, skills, and field experiences to ensure that students can effectively communicate and resolve clients’ issues. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) listed 10 standards of social work education, namely the profession, ethics, diversity, social justice, populations at risk, human behaviors, social welfare, practices with individuals, groups and communities, research and skill development. The study aims to evaluate effective social work programs by analyzing the obstacles encountered by public university students in Malaysia to fulfill CSWE standards. A total of 279 final-year students from six public universities pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in social work participated, with questionnaires analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 23.0. Results indicated effective social work education, with students encountering moderate barriers. Students demonstrated competence aligned with the Social Work Act, which was crucial for addressing psycho-social and socio-economic issues in Malaysian communities. This study also highlighted the importance of producing skilled social workers to enhance societal well-being, assisting individuals, families, and communities in resolving various challenges.

Determinants of ChatGPT adoption among students in higher education: the moderating effect of trust

Purpose ChatGPT is a cutting-edge chatbot powered by artificial intelligence that could revolutionise and advance the teaching and learning process. Drawing on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and information system (IS) success model, this study aims to investigate determinants of students’ intention to use ChatGPT for education purposes. Design/methodology/approach The partial least squares technique was used to analyse 406 usable data collected from university students in Malaysia. Findings The results confirmed the relationships between perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEU), attitude and intention to use proposed by TAM. PU and PEU are influenced by system quality. Surprisingly, trust in information moderates negatively the influences of PEU and PU on attitude. Practical implications The findings provide insight for higher education institutions, unit instructors and ChatGPT developers on what may promote the use of ChatGPT in higher education. Originality/value The study contributes to the literature by exploring the determinants of ChatGPT adoption, extending the TAM model by incorporating IS success factors and assessing the moderating effect of trust in information.

Self-Compassion as Mediator between Self-Critical Perfectionism and Depressive Symptoms among Malaysian University Students

Self-Compassion as Mediator between Self-Critical Perfectionism and Depressive Symptoms among Malaysian University Students

The Influence of Zakat Assistance on Academic Achievement Among University Students in Malaysia and Indonesia: A Pilot Study

It is well known that knowledge and education are the best solutions to abolish the Asnaf people from poverty. As a result, zakat institutions actively play an essential role in distributing zakat funds through educational assistance to the asnaf groups in Malaysia and Indonesia. This measure ensures that the asnaf groups receive educational opportunities and succeed like others. Dropping out of studies due to failure to pay tuition fees is among the issues that are often reported in most past studies. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify and analyze the influence of zakat assistance on the academic achievement of students at Universiti Teknologi MARA Terengganu Branch, Malaysia (UiTMCT) and Universitas Sains Al-Qur'an, Indonesia (UNSIQ). This study also provides recommendations to empower zakat assistance at UiTMCT and UNSIQ. This study used a quantitative research method involving data collection by distributing questionnaires to 54 students at UiTMCT and UNSIQ. The findings were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software (version 24). The t-test results showed a significant difference in academic performance and governance between UiTMCT and UNSIQ, with a p-value of less than 0.05. This study is anticipated to provide insight to the community on the efforts to empower zakat institutions to assist asnaf fisabilillah in higher education institutions (IPTs) in Malaysia and Indonesia.

Who’s the Winner? A Comparative Study of Like, Comment and Share Functions in Consumers’ Purchase Intention between Facebook and Instagram

In the past few years, there has been a significant focus on investigating the impact of social media engagement. Although previous studies recognize the importance of social media engagement, there is still a lack of in-depth analysis regarding the specific influences of likes, comments, and shares on consumer behaviour, especially concerning how these engagements affect different platforms. This study aims to examine the relationship between social media engagement metrics (likes, comments, and shares) and consumer purchase intention on two prominent platforms, Facebook and Instagram. By adopting a cross-sectional design, this study employed purposive sampling to gather data from Malaysian university students who have engaged in purchasing activities on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. The analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) based on 265 completed responses, comprising 131 from Facebook users and 134 from Instagram users. The results reveal a significant positive relationship between likes and shares with consumer purchase intention on both Facebook and Instagram. However, comments were not found to be associated with consumer purchase intention on either platform. Furthermore, the study conducted a comparative analysis between Facebook and Instagram and found no significant differences in the relationships between engagement metrics and purchase intention. These findings have practical implications for marketers, emphasizing the importance of fostering engagement through likes and shares to drive consumer purchasing behaviour on social media platforms.

The Role of Instagram in Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Help-Seeking Attitudes Among Malaysian University Students

This study investigates the effect of Instagram (IG) usage for seeking mental health information and emotional support on help-seeking attitudes via mental health awareness among university students in Perak, Malaysia. Utilizing the Media Dependency Theory, a quantitative approach was adopted with data collected from 364 undergraduate students at Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) and MARA University of Technology (UiTM) through a 44-item questionnaire. Descriptive analysis and Structural Equation Modelling were conducted to analyze the data. Findings indicated moderate IG usage for seeking mental health information and emotional support, high mental health awareness, and positive help-seeking attitudes. Specifically, IG usage for mental health information indirectly influenced help-seeking attitudes through mental health awareness, while seeking emotional support had a direct effect but was not mediated by mental health awareness. The study reveals that despite the predominant use of IG for entertainment, a significant portion of students also engaged with the platform for mental health-related purposes. This engagement contributes to their overall awareness of mental health issues and their willingness to seek help. The implications of these findings suggest that IG can be an effective platform for mental health promotion among university students. These findings suggest strategies for social media accounts promoting mental health to enhance engagement and spread awareness, particularly among Malaysian university students, to mitigate the stigma around help-seeking. Keywords: Instagram (IG) usage, mental health awareness, help-seeking attitudes, emotional support, university students.

A measure for perceived social support for university students: Implication for campus leaders

Social support plays a crucial role in an individual's life. Individuals who experience strong, positive social relationships and feel supported by others tend to report lower levels of anxiety, depression, and psychological stress. Social support may come from family members, friends, and significant others in life. Looking at the importance of social support in university students’ lives, there have been a few scales to measure social support, and one of them is the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, which was developed in a Western country. This study examined the validity of the Malay version of the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale in a sample of 443 Malaysian university students. Results support the high reliability and validity of this scale. Confirmatory factor analysis reported the expected three-factor structure and a high correlation between factors and scales. In addition, internal consistency was good, and correlation analysis with the Satisfaction with Life Scale proved the theoretical relations among the constructs. The findings suggest that MPSS-M is a reliable and valid tool to measure social support among students in higher education institutions. Campus leaders and student affairs professionals may use the scale to identify the source of support among students. Implication for university management is also discussed.

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Career Counseling Services for Chinese Students in Malaysian Universities

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Career Counseling Services for Chinese Students in Malaysian Universities

Motivation in Learning and Happiness: A Study among Generation Z University Students in Malaysia

The focus on success has overshadowed the happiness of students, leading to increased stress levels and eventual disengagement and dropout. This study prioritized the importance of student motivation in their happiness. It aimed to determine whether there is a link between motivation in learning and the happiness of Gen Z students in a Malaysian institution. 120 business faculty members enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in Malaysia participated in an online survey. The survey consisted of close-ended questions and utilized a Likert-type scale to gauge levels of agreement or disagreement regarding happiness using The Happiness Measures (HM). The analysis of the data was performed with SPSS Statistics Version 29. The study findings indicated a strong and meaningful correlation between happiness and three predictor variables: self-efficacy, active learning strategy, and achievement goals. Moreover, the research emphasized the capacity of extracurricular pursuits to improve the welfare of Generation Z students.

Why am I obsessed with viewing mukbang ASMR? The roles of mediated voyeurism and intertemporal choice

This study investigates the determinants of the obsessive view of mukbang autonomous sensory meridian response (Mukbang ASMR) and examines the moderation role of intertemporal choice and the mediating effect of mediated voyeurism among university students in Malaysia. A quantitative survey was conducted with 408 university students in Malaysia who viewed mukbang channel(s) often on social media. PLS-SEM is adopted to examine the associated paths and effects. The results demonstrate the significant impact of alienation and novelty, vicarious satisfaction, companionship and loneliness on mukbang ASMR obsession. Mediated voyeurism intervenes the effects of alienation and novelty on mukbang ASMR and intertemporal choice positively moderates the relationship between companionship and loneliness and mukbang ASMR. This study constructs a model to estimate Mukbang ASMR obsession by identifying specific motives and relationships among key factors, highlighting loneliness as the most effective determinant of mukbang ASMR among Malaysian younger generation. Research results provide an extended understanding of the mukbang ASMR, offering valuable insights in the areas of lifestyle, social well-being, and social media consumption.

Talk to engage: The influence of smartphone voice assistants on consumers’ brand engagement

ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate how smartphone voice assistants (SVAs) impact brand engagement among Malaysian university students, who are leading in digital consumption trends. The study aims to investigate how brand characteristics such as appeal, attachment, perceived utility, and usability impact consumer behaviour by utilising Brand Identity and Technology Acceptance models. Analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) in AMOS, data from 500 students experienced with voice assistants was collected through a survey. The results show strong connections in all studied relationships, emphasising the crucial importance of various brand attributes in promoting engagement. Usability and perceived utility are essential factors, indicating that businesses should focus on creating products that are both functional and user-friendly. The study provides distinctive perspectives on improving student engagement and brand partnerships in a competitive environment. It highlights the necessity for more research to help voice assistant professionals and academics enhance consumer-brand connections, especially among the digitally adept youth population in Malaysia.

Sowing green seeds of mind: exploring the determinants of green mindfulness among university students

Purpose This study aims to investigate the determinants influencing green mindfulness among university students in Malaysia within the context of the Malaysia 2030 Agenda, focusing on Sustainable Development Goal 17 attainment. Design/methodology/approach The research uses a quantitative approach with a sample of 203 young adults. It explores the factors of goal difficulty, knowledge and awareness, spirituality, values and perceived university environmental responsibility (PUER), using a novel theoretical framework termed universal identity theory (IT). Findings Values, knowledge and awareness and PUER significantly contribute to green mindfulness, whereas spirituality and goal difficulty did not exhibit a substantial relationship to green mindfulness. Research limitations/implications Limited representation of diverse age groups and the potential influence of seniority on spirituality. Future research should expand the framework to include green behavior and performance, increase the sample size and consider a broader age demographic. Practical implications Universities play a crucial role in promoting green mindfulness through the establishment of rules, regulations, environmental initiatives, incentive systems and the introduction of a green mindfulness course. Clear communication channels and top-down approaches are recommended. Social implications This research contributes to understanding the mechanisms that induce green mindfulness among university students in Malaysia, aligning with national and global sustainability goals. Originality/value The universal IT provides a comprehensive understanding of how personal, social and community-based identities collectively influence green mindfulness. This theoretical perspective contributes to the environmental psychology and sustainability studies field, offering a culturally sensitive approach.

Validity And Realibility Of The Knowledge, Attitude And Practice (Kap) Questionnaire On Hexagonal And Olympic Barbell Deadlift Among Young University Students

An instrument for assessing the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) regarding hexagonal and Olympic barbell deadlift among young university students is crucial for identifying any gaps in KAP. This assessment can assist in developing specific educational interventions, enhancing training programs, improving overall strength and conditioning outcomes, and mitigating health risks. The objective of this study was to create and verify a questionnaire, specifically designed for young university students, that assesses knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to hexagonal and Olympic barbell deadlift exercises. A study employing purposive sampling was undertaken among a cohort of 242 young university students in Malaysia. This questionnaire was derived from a previous study and enhanced with additional components related to hexagonal and Olympic barbell deadlift. The verification of content validity, construct validity, and reliability was conducted utilising several tests. All the items in the questionnaire contribute to a minimal factor structure, as indicated by the results of a rotational component matrix. The Kuder-Richardson 20 (KR-20) coefficient for the knowledge domain was 0.73, which is regarded satisfactory. The Cronbach's Alpha values above 0.70, indicating strong reliability. However, they were lower than the overall Cronbach's Alpha value of 0.965 for the practice domain. Therefore, no item needed to be removed. This questionnaire demonstrates robust validity and reliability, making it suitable for assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to hexagonal and Olympic barbell deadlift.

Factors Affecting Food Choice Among University Students in Malaysia

This study investigates the variables affecting university students' food Choices. A total of 361 respondents were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, data gathered. The Food Frequency and the Food Choice Questionnaires were used to assess dietary intake and food choice characteristics adapted from Steptoe, Pollard, and Wardle (1995). The study examined various food selection criteria including health, price, convenience, familiarity, and sensory appeal. The results indicated that sensory appeal was the most important factor influencing food choices among university students, while price was the least important. A significant relationship between food choice factors and their food intake. Students showed a strong concern forboth sensory appeal and convenience. Due to limited resources, students prioritized the sensory appeal of food over other factors, with sensory appeal sometimes acting as a barrier to healthy eating. Future research should explore these factors in different geographical areas and educational institutions.