Factors Influencing Student Loyalty in Online Physical and Health Education: Engagement and Satisfaction Effects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53797/ujssh.v4i2.16.2025Keywords:
Online physical education, student loyalty, student engagement, technological readiness, self-regulated efficacyAbstract
While online learning offers increased accessibility and flexibility, it presents unique challenges in traditionally hands-on subjects like physical education. Understanding the factors that influence student loyalty in online physical and health promotion education has become crucial for educational institutions seeking to maintain student engagement and retention in virtual learning environments. A quantitative research design employing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was conducted with 501 full-time undergraduate students from Heilongjiang International Studies University enrolled in online physical and health promotion courses. Data were collected using a validated 32-item Likert scale questionnaire measuring all six constructs. The study utilized purposive sampling and applied rigorous reliability and validity testing procedures, including exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The SEM analysis revealed significant positive relationships between Student Engagement and multiple factors: Student Technological Readiness (β = 1.141, p = 0.003), Self-regulated Efficacy (β = 1.897, p < .001), and Student Autonomy (β = 2.837, p < .001). Both Student Engagement (β = 0.991, p < .001) and Student Satisfaction (β = 1.003, p < .001) demonstrated strong direct effects on Student Loyalty. findings highlight the critical importance of fostering student engagement and satisfaction to enhance loyalty in online physical and health promotion education. The strongest relationship observed was between engagement and student autonomy, emphasizing the role of engagement in developing independent learning capabilities. These results provide valuable insights for educators and administrators to design more effective online physical education programs that prioritize interactive learning experiences and student-centered approaches to enhance retention and loyalty.
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