Enhancing Online Learning Effectiveness in Higher Education: A Statistical Analysis Approach

Novi Reandy Sasmita*, Universitas Syiah Kuala
Reksi Utami, Universitas Syiah Kuala
Latifah Rahayu, Universitas Syiah Kuala
Faisal Mustafa, Universitas Syiah Kuala
Juang Rudianto Putra, Prince of Songkla University
Citra Kurniawan, State University of Malang
M. Ischaq Nabil Asshiddiqi, University of Hong Kong

https://doi.org/10.9743/JEO.2026.23.2.18

Abstract

This study aims to identify the key factors affecting the effectiveness of online learning. Utilizing a cross-sectional study design, data were collected from 1,025 students across 43 universities in Indonesia through purposive sampling. The study examined variables such as digital skills, social presence, and level of understanding, followed by correlation and path analyses. The social presence had a total effect of 0.773, digital skills exhibited a total effect of 0.132, and both variables were mediated by the level of understanding variable, which had a direct effect of 0.591. Findings reveal that the variables of digital skill, social presence, and level of understanding affect the online learning effectiveness of students. The more developed the digital skills, social presence, and level of understanding, the more effective the online learning. Further, social presence contributes to the effectiveness of online learning through direct interaction and its important role in improving students’ understanding of learning content.

Keywords: learning effectiveness, digital skill, level of understanding, path analysis, social presence

*Corresponding Author: novireandys@usk.ac.id