Does the Adoption of Sustainable Development Practices among Online Distance Learning Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia Matter? The Role of Intention as a Mediator

Abstract

Sustainable development practices have become a critical issue in organizations worldwide, garnering significant attention. The study of sustainable development practices in online distance learning institutions in Malaysia is significant due to the global importance of sustainability. Understanding the factors influencing the adoption of sustainable practices and the mediating role of intention can offer valuable insights to policymakers, educators, and institutions. The findings can guide the development of strategies promoting sustainable practices in online education, contributing to environmental conservation and the advancement of sustainable development goals in the education sector, both within Malaysia and beyond.  This study aims to assess the direct relationships between attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and intention, as well as the direct relationship between intention and adoption, and also the mediating effect of intention on the relationship between perceived behavioral control and adoption of sustainable development practices among employees in distance learning higher education institutions in Malaysia. Currently, the level of adoption of sustainable practices in online distance learning higher education institutions in Malaysia is relatively low, highlighting the need for improvement. The study utilized primary data collected through a survey questionnaire adapted from previous research studies. The data analysis involved 392 clean data points and employed structural equation modeling. The measurement model was assessed to establish convergent validity by examining construct reliability and validity. Discriminant validity was verified through cross-loading and Hetrotrait-Monotrait (HTMT) ratios. The structural model was then evaluated, and the results confirmed significant positive direct relationships between attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and intention. Additionally, intention was found to have a positive and significant relationship with adoption. Furthermore, the study revealed that intention significantly mediates the relationship between perceived behavioral control and adoption. These findings provide insights and suggest strategies to enhance the adoption of sustainable development practices in the context of online distance learning higher education institutions. For future studies, researchers should consider exploring the potential moderating effects of individual characteristics, such as prior knowledge, self-efficacy, and environmental awareness, on the relationship between attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intention, and adoption.