International Journal of Management in Education (22 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Bridging cognition and practice: factors affecting play-based learning in Chinese public kindergartens  
  by Haihan Zhang, Mohd Nazri Bin Abdul Rahman, Amira Najiha Binti Yahya 
  Abstract: Play-based learning is evaluating over the time that requires efficiency in teaching and implementing process. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors affecting play-based learning in Chinese public kindergartens. A sample of 352 respondents was collected from teachers implementing play-based learning. Smart PLS 4 was used for measurement model assessment and structural model evaluation. The study found that cognition of play-based learning, attitude towards play-based learning, availability of resources and gamification training has a significant impact on effectiveness of play-based learning implementation. In addition, the study concludes that teaching experience have a positive moderating role for the impact of cognition of play-based learning, attitude towards play-based learning, and gamification training on effectiveness of play-based learning implementation. The study reported no moderating impact of teaching experience regarding the relationship between availability of resources and play-based learning implementation. The findings of this research have novel contribution to literature For practical lens, this study provides effective factors to improve the play-based learning implementation in Chinese public kindergartens.
  Keywords: cognitive based learning; teachers experience; play-based learning; learning implementation; education.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10075367
   
  
• Enhancing human resource quality in higher education: the role of capability maturity model and organisational training at Universitas Jambi, Indonesia  
  by Syahmardi Yacob, Erwita Dewi, Rohman Wiliam, Husni Hasbulah 
  Abstract: Enhancing the quality of Human Resources (HR) for educational personnel is crucial to improving the effectiveness of higher education institutions. This study examines the impact of the Capability Maturity Model (CMM), here defined as a structured framework to evaluate the maturity of organisational processes and HR practices on organisational performance, with Organisational Training as a mediating variable. Using a quantitative approach with Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS), this study analyses data from 250 educational personnel at Universitas Jambi, selected through Disproportionate Stratified Random Sampling. The findings reveal that CMM significantly influences organisational performance, both directly and through the mediation of Organisational Training. This highlights the importance of structured and continuous training in maximising CMM’s impact. The study contributes empirical evidence on the role of organisational maturity models and training in improving institutional performance. Furthermore, it supports Universitas Jambi’s Management Transformation strategy, providing a foundation for competency-based HR development in higher education institutions.
  Keywords: capability maturity model; organisational training; organisational performance; educational personnel; higher education.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10075511
   
  
• Transforming higher education for SDG 4: the role of digital technologies  
  by Aisha Ansari, Haroon Bakari, Dina Metwally 
  Abstract: The post-pandemic era has accelerated digital transformation in higher education, yet there is a lack of critical reviews exploring how digital technologies support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education). This study addresses that gap by reviewing literature from 2019 to 2024 sourced from Scopus and Web of Science. Through content analysis, it examines the drivers of digital transformation in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), key technologies adopted, their impact on institutional functions, and implementation challenges. The review highlights how digital innovation can enhance access, quality, and equity in higher education in line with UNSDG-4. It also offers a conceptual model to guide HEIs in aligning digital initiatives with sustainable development goals. The findings have practical implications for HEI leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research, including prescriptive and empirical studies to assess the effectiveness of specific digital strategies in higher education contexts.
  Keywords: higher education sector; educational technology; education 4.0; entrepreneurial skills; sustainable development goal 4.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10076090
   
  
• Impact of higher education performance on students’ perceived employability: the mediating role of subjective well-being  
  by Ridha Bechri, Adel Bejaoui, Jamel-Eddine Gharbi 
  Abstract: This study examines the mechanisms through which higher education performance influences students’ perceived employability, with a specific focus on the mediating role of students’ subjective well-being. A quantitative survey of 406 students from a leading Tunisian university was analysed using structural equation modelling (AMOS-24). The results reveal no direct link between higher education performance and students’ perceived employability; rather, the relationship is fully mediated by students’ subjective well-being within the academic environment. These findings indicate that higher education institutions should complement academic enhancement with initiatives that prioritise psychological support, foster social engagement and improve students’ overall quality-of-life. Challenging traditional human capital models which posit a direct, linear relationship between education quality and career outcomes this study demonstrates that the impact of higher education on perceived employability is entirely mediated by students’ subjective well-being. This article contributes to existing theoretical frameworks by underscoring that employability development extends beyond the transmission of academic knowledge to the creation of an educational environment conducive to well-being.
  Keywords: awareness; full mediation; higher education performance; students’perceived employability; students’ well-being.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10076470
   
  
• Exploring the role of teacher influence and course content in e-learning adoption: revising the UTAUT model  
  by Anu Kohli, Ram Singh, Sonam Arora  
  Abstract: The study aims to assess the role of 'teacher influence' and 'course content' on the intentions to adopt e-learning and thereby investigate and propose revisions to the UTAUT model and to incorporate them as key factors. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to 574 UG and PG students from various central, state and private universities across India. The proposed hypothesis was tested using the PLS SEM software. The study reveals that 'performance expectancy', 'effort expectancy', 'hedonic motivation' and 'course content' significantly influence the intention to adopt e-learning. In contrast, 'teacher influence', 'social influence' and 'facilitating conditions' do not exhibit a noteworthy impact. The study is amongst a unique attempt to analyse the impact of 'teacher influence' and 'course content' on the adoption of e-learning platforms by higher education students in the developing country like India in the post-pandemic era.
  Keywords: online learning; digital learning; e-learning; education management; UTAUT; technology adoption.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10076963
   
  
• Principals’ instructional leadership in Lesotho: perceptions and gender implications in curriculum reform and implementation  
  by Moeketsi David Ralebese, Loyiso C. Jita, Olalekan Taofeek Badmus 
  Abstract: This study explores primary school principals’ perceptions of their instructional leadership roles in the context of Lesotho’s curriculum reform, implementation and examines potential gender-based differences in these perceptions. Using a quantitative research approach, data were collected from a sample of 248 primary school principals in Lesotho. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilised to analyse the principals' self-reported data across three instructional leadership dimensions: developing the school mission, managing the instructional program, and promoting a positive school climate. Results indicate that principals perceive themselves as highly engaged in instructional leadership, with high mean scores across all dimensions, despite the curriculum reform policy not explicitly defining instructional leadership role. This finding suggests that female principals may have distinct leadership strengths conducive to fostering collaborative and supportive school environments. The study recommended that teacher training institutions develop targeted leadership programs to enhance principals' skills in instructional leadership and change management.
  Keywords: curriculum reform; instructional leadership; school climate; school mission; instructional programs; gender.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10077216
   
  
• Exploring university students perceptions of artificial intelligence acceptance in mathematical learning through motivational beliefs and self-regulated learning strategies  
  by Saufianim Jana Aksah, Nor Aziyatul Izni, Zarith Sofiah Othman, Nur Ilyana Ismarau Tajuddin, Nor Asiah Mahmood, Noor Hanim Rahmat, Nur Aqilah Zainordin 
  Abstract: Understanding students’ perspectives on artificial intelligence (AI) is pivotal in cultivating effective applications that enhance mathematics learning over time. This study endeavours to investigate the correlation between self-regulated learning strategies and motivational beliefs within the framework of university students’ acceptance of artificial intelligence in mathematical learning. A cohort of 151 participants from both public and private universities, majoring in Mathematics in Malaysia, was recruited. The questionnaire comprises two sections, each containing relevant inquiries designed to assess motivational beliefs (MB) and self-regulated learning strategies (SRLS), factors influencing students’ perceptions of artificial intelligence acceptance in mathematical learning. Cronbach’s alpha were used to determine the reliability of the items and correlation were used to determine the relationship between the aforementioned two factors. The findings unveiled a noteworthy correlation between MB and SRLS when probing students’ perceptions regarding the adoption of AI.
  Keywords: motivational beliefs; self-regulated learning; self-efficacy; intrinsic value; test anxiety; cognitive strategy use.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10077583
   
  
• Critical success factor (CSF) relationship model of lean six sigma development in higher education institutions (HEI): a case study of private university in Indonesia  
  by Ig. Jaka Mulyana, Mosel Laksono Singgih, Sri Gunani Partiwi, Julius Mulyono 
  Abstract: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have an opportunity to develop Lean Six Sigma (LSS) because, they need to boost efficiency and effectiveness. The Critical Success Factors (CSF) for LSS development must be determined and finding correlations between elements is also essential. CSF analysis in manufacturing and service industries has been done, but not in HEIs. This paper aims to investigate relationship model of CSF of LSS in HEI. The relationship model was created using the Matriced Impacts of Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement (MICMAC) and the Fuzzy Total Interpretive Structural Method (Fuzzy TISM). This research was conducted at a private university in Indonesia. The assessment of the relationship between CSFs is carried out by university leaders. This research shows that the three CSFs most influential to others. This paper can be a reference for HEI management to make strategic plans for HEI development, especially if they use the Lean Management approach.
  Keywords: critical success factors; fuzzy TISM; MICMAC; lean six sigma; higher education institutions.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10077699
   
  
• Higher education funding: bibliometric analysis of global research trends  
  by Moldir Tazhibekova, Ahmet Aypay 
  Abstract: This study provides a bibliometric analysis of global research trends in higher education funding. In response to increasing financial demands on higher education around the world, this study systematically reviews the literature to identify key trends, influential publications, and new areas of research. Using Web of Science and Scopus databases, the study analyzes 801 relevant records through descriptive and co-occurrence analysis, using VOSviewer for visualization. The results show significant fluctuations in publication volume over the decades, with notable increases in recent years. Influential journals, authors, and co-author networks are identified, showing that a small number of journals and authors make disproportionate contributions to the field. The analysis reveals eight main research clusters, including topics such as research funding, university autonomy, government funding and student funding. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution and current state of higher education funding research, offering future research directions and potential policy implications.
  Keywords: higher education; funding; trends; future; bibliometric analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10077702
   
  
• Influence of location, social capital, and digital literacy in determining students’ admission to tertiary education: A perspective on sustainable development  
  by Gazi Mahabubul Alam, Shiwei Wang, Vesna Skrbinjek, Karima Bashir, Miao Lei  
  Abstract: The sustainable development goals (SDGs) devised by the United Nations, specifically SDGs 4 and 10, which call for quality education and reduced inequalities, have garnered tremendous interest from researchers globally. Despite this call, disparities persist due to students’ location. This study therefore explored how social capital, and digital literacy determines access to various types of tertiary education, focusing on urban and rural locations. Using multivariate logistic regression and group regression under the guise quantitative method, the research analysed data from secondary school graduates in 2024. The study’s results reveal there is significant inequality in access to postsecondary education institutions and highlighted that digital literacy mediates the relationship between tertiary education, social capital and admission to tertiary education. Moreover, the findings confirm that digital literacy plays a significant role in predicting access to various forms of tertiary education. By providing these dynamics, the study contributes to sustainable development literature and offer a novel insight on persistent educational inequalities.
  Keywords: China; social capital; digital literacy; access; tertiary education; rural students; urban students; SDGs.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10077759
   
  
• Understanding the interplay between perceived expectancy, instrumentality, and valence in student volunteerism: implications for human capital sustainability in Malaysia  
  by Muhammad Aiman Awalluddin, Anisa Safiah Maznorbalia, Nur Amira Nabila Rashdan Nubli, Nur Shafiqa Muhammad Fuadz 
  Abstract: This study examines how university students' perceptions of expectancy, instrumentality, and valence influence their motivation to volunteer in Malaysia, with an emphasis on human capital sustainability. It highlights the value of integrating volunteering with academic and career goals to foster personal and professional growth. Data analysis using SPSS revealed a significant positive relationship between students' perceptions of expectancy, instrumentality, and valence, and their willingness to volunteer. This alignment with academic and career objectives enhances employability and supports human capital sustainability. By incorporating volunteer activities into the curriculum, students can develop essential skills and contribute to a workforce that is both technically proficient and socially responsible. Educational institutions and policymakers can use these insights to improve volunteer programs, benefiting students while advancing national human capital development.
  Keywords: volunteerism; human capital; university; employability; social responsibility.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10077783
   
  
• Perceptions of mass promotion and their relationship to learners’ academic performance  
  by Kenny Kiamco, Purity Mata 
  Abstract: Mass promotion is the teachers’ practice of giving passing grades to failing learners because of a policy that made learner retention impossible. This study examined the relationship between teachers’ and learners’ perceptions of mass promotion and learner academic performance in selected public schools in the Compostela District, Philippines. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 60 teachers and 418 Grade 510 learners through surveys and official performance records. Findings revealed that learners generally achieved proficient performance levels with no significant relationship between their perceptions and achievement. However, teachers’ strongly negative views were significantly associated with lower learner performance, suggesting that academic outcomes are shaped more profoundly by teachers’ attitudes than by learners’ perspectives. By integrating Street Level Bureaucracy Theory and Self-Determination Theory, the study highlights how frontline implementers’ autonomy, motivation, and policy alignment shape instructional quality and learner competency, underscoring the need to uphold high standards for quality education.
  Keywords: mass promotion; academic performance; teacher perceptions; learner perceptions; street-level bureaucracy theory; self-determination theory; educational policy reform.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2027.10077784
   
  
• The perceptions of primary school teachers and the role of principals in the transformation of school units into learning organisations  
  by Vasiliki Brinia, Eleni Iliodromiti, Konstantina Antonopoulou, Alexandros Dimos, Christos Katsionis, Anna Kondea, Stavroula Marinopoulou 
  Abstract: The main aim of this research was to investigate the views of primary school teachers on the issue of the educational transformation of schools and the role that principals play in this process. In particular, the benefits of the learning organisation and the role of the principal and teachers in this transformation are examined, as well as the identification of the main obstacles to implementing the transformation. A quantitative method was used, and the responses of 240 teachers in primary schools were analysed using the statistical package SPSS. From the data analysis, it emerged that the most important benefit of the transformation of schools into an educational institution is the development of a shared vision with common goals among members of the school unit and the improvement of the relationship among parents, students and teachers. The novelty of this research lies in assessing how primary school teachers view transformational leadership and whether they perceive their schools as functioning learning organisations. The present research aims to contribute to the findings that will be collected and analysed in the theoretical approach to the concept of learning organisation.
  Keywords: school units' transformation; educational institution; primary school education; leadership; learning organisations.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10076581
   
  
• Towards effective implementation of educational reforms: the relationship between principal change leadership competency and teacher agency  
  by Reyett Paunan, Mei Kin Tai, Jasmine Jain 
  Abstract: The objective of the study was to examine the relationship between Principal Change Leadership Competency (PCLC) and Teacher Agency (TA) among private secondary schools in CALABARZON Region in the Philippines. Using stratified random sampling, 938 private secondary school teachers from 5 provinces in the region completed the survey. The data was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling. The findings revealed a significant relationship between PCLC and TA (β = 0.411, p < 0.05), with a medium effect size (f² = 0.203) explaining 16.9% of the variance in TA (R² = 0.169). These results underscore the critical role of PCLC in fostering TA by promoting autonomy, adaptability and professional ownership. The study provides valuable insights for school administrators and policymakers in designing relevant leadership training programs to enhance PCLC as the successful implementation of educational reforms relies on school principals' competencies in driving change by enhancing TA.
  Keywords: principal change leadership competency; teacher agency; educational reforms; MATATAG curriculum; PLS-SEM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10074534
   
  
• Investigating the effect of conflict and enrichment between work and family on the work-life balance of higher education teachers: moderating role of nature of job  
  by Kinneri Jain, Abhay Jain, Anand Bansal 
  Abstract: The study seeks to investigate how the antecedents of work-life balance affect the work-life balance of teachers. For the purposes of the research, a questionnaire was administered to teachers of the University of Delhi, and 425 responses were collected. Structural Equation Modelling was employed to test the effects of independent variables on the work-life balance of teachers and to interpret the differences between permanent and non-permanent teachers, an independent sample t-test was conducted. The analysis revealed that both family-work conflict (p<0.05) and work-family conflict (p<0.05) had a negative influence on the work-life balance of teachers. Work-family enrichment exerted a positive influence on work-life balance (p<0.05), but family-work enrichment did not influence work-life balance (p=0.778). The analysis exhibited that permanent teachers had greater work-life balance, lower family-work conflict and work-family conflict in comparison to non-permanent teachers. The research explores a prominent area that strongly influences academics and warrants the immediate attention of higher authorities.
  Keywords: conflict; enrichment; work-life balance; permanent teachers; non-permanent teachers; University of Delhi.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10074696
   
  
• Intelligent data mining for real-time academic insights to drive proactive decision-making in higher education innovation  
  by K. Shilpa, D. Suresha 
  Abstract: Advanced real-time academic insights require complex data mining tools because higher education student performance forecasting is challenging. The project utilises machine learning and educational data mining to develop a data-driven framework that enhances higher education student outcomes and reduces dropout rates. The study uses over 4000 undergraduate and postgraduate student records from Bangalore universities to combine academic accomplishment, staff involvement, attendance, engagement and socioeconomic variables. Seven supervised learning algorithms were tested for their accuracy in predicting student academic success and dropout likelihood using the KDD paradigm. The framework includes DT, RF, SVM, kNN, LR, NB and MLR. Random Forest had the highest prediction accuracy for real-time student monitoring and intervention planning (91.63%) with a robust F1-score (0.9332) and AUC-ROC (0.8748). In-depth correlation, feature importance analysis, clustering, sentiment mining and sentiment analysis revealed that study hours, faculty support and attendance significantly impact academic achievement. Stress was negatively correlated. Risk reduction and instructional approaches were also provided via hierarchical clustering and tiered performance analysis. These results demonstrate how current data mining can enhance personalised learning, retention and informed decision-making in proactive education.
  Keywords: academic performance prediction; decision trees; random forests; SVM; support vector machines; k-nearest neighbours; logistic regression; Naïve Bayes; MLR; multiple linear regression; KDD; knowledge discovery in databases.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10074531
   
  
• Exploring work-related behaviours: the impact of organisational factors in teachers' organisational commitment and job satisfaction in Turkish public schools  
  by Hulya Gorgulu, Derya Kilicoglu 
  Abstract: The purpose of this research is to test a theoretical model to explain structural relationships between perceived organisational support, organisational justice, organisational cynicism, organisational commitment and job satisfaction. The study sample consists of 353 teachers employed in 18 different Turkish public high schools selected through stratified sampling method considering socioeconomic regions of the schools. Correlation for data analysis, confirmatory factor analysis for structural validity of scales and path analysis for testing the constructural model were utilised in the research. As a result of validated model, it was concluded that teachers' organisational support and organisational justice perceptions affect their organisational cynicism perceptions in negative way. Teachers' organisational cynicism perceptions affect their organisational commitment and job satisfaction perceptions in negative way as well. It was also revealed that teachers' organisational support and organisational justice perceptions affect their organisational commitment and job satisfaction perceptions positively via the mediating role of organisational cynicism perceptions.
  Keywords: organisational justice; perceived organisational support; organisational cynicism; organisational commitment; job satisfaction.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10075547
   
  
• What pulls international students to Indonesia? Factors exploration across student populations  
  by Lea Simek, William H. Stewart, Debby Lubis 
  Abstract: The number of non-traditional study destinations is increasing, yet our understanding of pull factors remains rooted in established destinations with limited insights into diverse student populations. This study examines pull factors influencing international students in Indonesia, aiming to improve communication strategies for this emerging destination. Using data from 71 students, it employs quantitative analysis (descriptive statistics and non-parametric one-way ANOVA) and content analysis of open-ended responses. Initial findings reveal that exchange students value regional travel, while degree-seekers prioritise institutional qualities. Cost, lifestyle and services are especially important to male students. First-choice students were influenced by their network, while Indonesia's reputation as a tourist and economic hub was further highlighted as important for many students. This research provides novel insights into international student decision-making in Indonesia, offering practical implications for enhancing marketing strategies, understanding push-pull factors and enriching international learning environments in emerging study destinations.
  Keywords: emerging study destinations; higher education marketing; Indonesia; international students; pull factors; segmentation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10075625
   
  
• Ethical climate's impact on organisational commitment and citizenship behaviours: a study of private school teachers  
  by Muhammet Sait Dinc, Mehmet Ozgun 
  Abstract: Teachers' Organisational Citizenship Behaviours (OCB) are increasingly vital in schools. Research suggests that teachers' perceptions of Ethical Climate (EC) influence their Organisational Commitment (OC) and OCB; however, limited studies have examined how different EC types affect specific OC components and OCB dimensions. This study investigates the relationships among EC types, OC components, and OCB dimensions among 148 teachers in private schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Data was analysed using exploratory factor analysis, descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis. Findings indicate that caring and law and code EC types positively influence affective commitment, while the independent EC type enhances continuance commitment. The law and code EC type also positively affects the compliance dimension of OCB. Conversely, affective commitment negatively influences attendance and compliance dimensions of OCB. These results contribute to understanding how ethical climate shapes teachers' organisational attitudes and extra-role behaviours.
  Keywords: affective commitment; Bosnia and Herzegovina; continuance commitment; private school teachers; ethical climate types; organisational citizenship behaviours.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10074304
   
  
• A transition from classroom to workplace: an examination into the learning process at DevLAB (Finland)  
  by Kari-Pekka Heikkinen, Ulla- Maija Törmälä, Kongkiti Phusavat 
  Abstract: Higher education institutions play a pivotal role in the transition from classroom to workplace in terms of an individual's work performance. This research examines the impacts from the studio concept, employed by the DevLAB at Oulu University of Applied Sciences (Finland), on this transition. Using qualitative methods, including an online survey of 58 former DevLAB students and focus group interviews with 10 participants, eight key attributes influencing this work performance (i.e., task, contextual and adaptive performance) were identified-external interaction and involvement; team dynamics and social cohesion; meaningful real-world tasks and challenges; learning environment and approach; constant use of constructive feedback; emotion, belongingness and psychology; personal development and growth and organised and visible support during learning. These attributes directly correlate with previous studies which stressed the significant impacts of the learning environment such as feedback and engagement for the newly-graduated workforce. Three implications are recognised when designing the learning process: the importance of undefined project scope and uncertainty; the roles of external entity for feedback, governance and self-reflection and the importance of becoming a learning facilitator for a classroom instructor. This study enhances the knowledge that can bridge the gap between academic settings and professional practices.
  Keywords: higher education; learning process; studio concept; learning experiences; work performance; feedback.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10075520
   
  
• Educational resilience in crisis: a systematic literature review of higher education institutions  
  by Rachna Jain, Shikha Sharma 
  Abstract: The resilience of educational institutions, particularly in the face of unprecedented challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a focal point for contemporary research. The study aims to explore the various dimensions of resilience within educational institutions, focusing on how resilience can be fostered to promote sustainable growth. The Systematic Literature Review (SLR), conducted using the PRISMA methodology, explores the multi-dimensional aspects of resilience within higher education, drawing from a diverse range of studies. Six key themes emerged through thematic coding: Student Resilience, Academic Resilience, Organisational Resilience, Resilience due to COVID-19, Social Support and Well-being and Resilience Framework. The analysis reveals that resilience among students and academics is not merely a personal trait but is significantly influenced by external support systems, institutional policies and socio-economic contexts. The review emphasises the importance of incorporating resilience-building strategies into HEIs to ensure sustainable growth and adversity resilience among policymakers, educators and students.
  Keywords: resilience; higher education; student; COVID-19; social support; academic.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10076344
   
  
• An adaptation of Stephen Covey's philosophy on the circle of life in the enrolment decisions of students for higher education: moderated and mediated model  
  by Khusboo Srivastava, Somesh Dhamija 
  Abstract: The study aims to shed light on the significance of important determinants in Indian students' decision-making process when it comes to enrolling in higher education, viewed through the framework of theory of circles of life propounded by Stephen Covey. Sample size consist of response from 556 candidates of NCR region, i.e. Delhi and surroundings, India, collected using a convenience sampling method thereafter the data were statistically analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling. Furthermore, it emphasised the importance of 'institutional attributes' in examining the relationships between the student's college decision under 'circle of control' and the major influences under 'circle of concern' and 'circle of influence'. Furthermore, the present research also investigates the moderating effect of 'student cognizance'. The study pulls the consideration of education policymakers to the significance of guardians and peers in influencing students' institution selection decisions within the 'circle of influence'.
  Keywords: circle of life; Stephen Covey; student decision-making; parental impact; peer influence; student cognizance; institutional attributes.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2026.10077266