Abstract
This study examines how sustainability influences Generation Z's choices in study abroad programs, including Student Exchange, Work and Study, and Language Immersion Programs. Using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), researchers evaluated factors like program duration, specialization, cost, financial aid, research opportunities, and quality. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) was applied to understand how these sustainability factors affect decisions. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed relationships among ten variables, including Perceived Benefits (PB), Perceived Cost (PC), Perceived Risk (PR), Perceived Trust (PT), Attitude (A), Subjective Norms (SN), Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC), Awareness of Service (AOS), Intention (IN), and Behavior (B). An artificial neural network (ANN) enhanced the accuracy of identifying key sustainability factors. Data from 320 respondents via 60 surveys indicated that sustainability significantly influences study abroad decisions, with Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC) having the strongest impact, followed by intention and attitude. Perceived Benefits (PB), Perceived Risk (PR), Perceived Trust (PT), and Awareness of Service (AOS) were crucial in shaping intentions. Subjective Norms (SN) indirectly influenced decisions. Student Exchange Programs were the preferred choice due to perceived sustainability benefits. This study provides insights for educational institutions and policymakers better to align programs with Gen Z's sustainability goals.
Author Information
Charmine Sheena Saflor, De La Salle University, Philippines
Klint Allen Mariñas, Mapua University, Philippines
Jazel Monterola, Occidental Mindoro State College, Philippines
Reina Krizzia Pranada, Occidental Mindoro State College, Philippines
Macrein Acosta, Occidental Mindoro State College, Philippines
Arnelyn Labao, Rizal National High School, Philippines
Paper Information
Conference: ACE2024
Stream: Learning Experiences
This paper is part of the ACE2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Saflor C., Mariñas K., Monterola J., Pranada R., Acosta M., & Labao A. (2025) Charting Sustainable Pathways: Understanding Private and Public State Universities’ Role in Generation Z’s Study Abroad Choices Through MCDA and SEM-ANN ISSN: 2186-5892 – The Asian Conference on Education 2024: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 623-631) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2186-5892.2025.55
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2186-5892.2025.55
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