Unveiling Learner Motivations: Factors Driving Willingness To Join Online Degree Programs

Abstract

The research investigates essential elements that motivate students to select online degree programs among the rapidly growing higher education sectors. Higher education institutions and their supporters should grasp student enrolment motivators because the expanding demand for flexible learning options requires this knowledge. The research analyses six essential elements that affect learner enrolment decisions, including system usability and accessibility along with cost factors, technology competencies, work-life balance, past online learning experience and academic institution reputation. This study utilizes a PLS-SEM approach to evaluate the association between the studied factors using data from learners in the Delhi-NCR region who have enrolled in UGC-approved universities offering online degree programs. The sample size in the study was 545 respondents. The study highlighted that the learners' enrolment decisions are heavily affected by their previous experience with online learning, their experience with technology, their cost analysis, and perception of institutional reputability. No significant relationship was found between work-life balance and its impact on enrolment decisions. The findings from this study offer important guidance to university administrators and policymakers to optimize their approach to designing online programs and promotion strategies so they can attract students more effectively. Higher education institutions should aim to enrich their students' digital skills with affordable tuition fees and promote the quality reputation of distance learning to support enrolment growth.