Digital transformation in higher education: A comprehensive review of e-learning adoption

Article type: Review Article

Authors: Shard, ^{a; *} | Kumar, Devesh^{b; 1} | Koul, Sapna^{c; 2}

Affiliations: [a] Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Bajhol, India | [b] School of Commerce and Management Studies, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, India | [c] Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Bajhol, India

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Shard, PhD Research Scholar, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Bajhol-173229 (H.P.), India. Tel.: +91 8219639808; E-mail: shard@shooliniuniversity.com; ORCID: 0000-0002-5591-3240.

Note: [1] ORCID: 0000-0001-7261-9898

Note: [2] ORCID: 0000-0002-7092-7333

Abstract: BACKGROUND:Data-driven practices are now crucial in the digital age for streamlining operations and boosting output across a range of industries. With e-Learning emerging as a cutting-edge and promising strategy to improve educational delivery and student engagement, higher education institutions are also adopting this trend. Despite the potential advantages, e-Learning adoption in higher education is still a developing topic with scant published research. OBJECTIVE:This study aims to conduct a thorough analysis of existing literature, seeking to determine the present status of e-Learning adoption in higher education while also identifying promising avenues for further research. METHODS:In this study, a systematic literature review methodology and a bibliometric approach are utilized to examine 63 papers sourced from the Scopus database, encompassing the years 2017 to 2021. These papers were specifically chosen due to their pertinence to e-Learning adoption in higher education institutions, following the exclusion and inclusion criteria outlined in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework. The analysis techniques employed include descriptive overviews, citation analysis, and keyword co-occurrence. RESULTS:The systematic review of the literature revealed a significant increase in e-Learning adoption within higher education institutions (HEIs) in recent times. The findings highlighted several crucial factors influencing e-Learning adoption, including perceived ease of use, usefulness, learner attitude, self-efficacy, and facilitating conditions. However, further investigation is needed to better understand the impact of perceived learning and teaching styles on e-Learning acceptance in higher education settings. CONCLUSION:This study suggests conducting future investigations on e-Learning in developing countries, with a specific focus on intention, usage, adoption, and impact. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of exploring the influence of learning and teaching styles on e-Learning acceptance within higher education institutions. These valuable insights will facilitate the development of effective strategies for the successful implementation of e-Learning in higher education settings.

Keywords: Acceptance, adoption, e-Learning, higher education institutes, information, and communication technology (ICT), learning management system (LMS), systematic literature review (SLR)

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-230190

Journal: Human Systems Management, vol. 43, no. 4, pp. 433-454, 2024