Exploring factors influencing online classes due to social distancing in COVID-19 pandemic: a business students perspective

ABSTRACT

Purpose: This study explores the factors responsible for influencing online classes for business school during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also examines the level of influence of these factors on online classes. Design/methodology/approach: Primary data were collected online from 716 business school students using a questionnaire developed by the researcher. Smart PLS3 software was used to analyze the data. Findings: Attitude, curriculum, motivation, technology and training were found to have an impact on online classes. Three variables (attitude, motivation and training) have a positive impact on online classes, whereas two variables (curriculum and technology) have a negative impact on the online classes. All the factors have been found to be significant except technology which is found to have an insignificant impact (p = 0.356) on online classes. Research limitations/implications Only one university’s students were surveyed. Practical implications Outlines the factors which have a positive and significant impact on online classes during COVID-19 pandemic. This study can be generalized through a student's community across the world as the students face similar problems associated with online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social implications Suggest factors that can be considered while COVID-19 pandemic during social distancing to make online classes more effective and to reduce the impact of this pandemic. Originality/value No study has documented the factors associated to impact the online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited.