Technology Mediation and Location Moderation Influencing Emotional Intelligence on Online Learning Efficacy: a Catalyst Driving SDG

Aim: This research paper is an effort to study the feasibility of online learning situations and address the various psychological or emotional drivers behind its sustainable adoption (SDG3) by the learners. This study will address the ecosystem that needs to be developed to provide quality educational needs for our manpower (SDG4) and this can catalyse gainful employment and socio-economic growth (SDG8). Theoretical Framework: This study is grounded on the scales adapted from popular theoretical frameworks namely WLEIS by Wong & Long, 2002; UTAUT scale by Venkatesh et al., 2003; OLRS scale by Hung et al., 2010. Method: Inter-correlation among emotional intelligence, technology adoption intention and online learning readiness is used after validation of the instruments and model identified. The study is conducted on a sample of 661 students from Community colleges in two different locations through stratified sampling method as this will help to identify any specific issues in embracing online learning model. Results: The data analysed shows that emotional intelligence influence on learner readiness mediated by technology adoption cannot be ignored as it can enhance their self-efficacy with technology, motivation for learning and apply necessary control to achieve performance. Conclusion: The findings of the study identify two sweet spots that prelude online learning situations as emotional intelligence and technology adoption. Research Implication: Not just technology integration but emotional intelligence has to be integrated into the educational system right from ingraining them into pedagogy and transfer to incumbents during knowledge acquisition. Institutional and individual role should be directed in this way. Hence the study makes a strong emphasis on SDG4 as a catalyst for SDG8. Originality/ Value: Mediating role of technology adoption in the relationship between emotional intelligence and online learning readiness is a new addition to the literature.