Determinants of Continuance Intention in Online Course Platforms: The Mediating Role of Attitude

This study investigates the determinants of continuance intention in online course platforms by integrating technological, psychological, and social perspectives. Specifically, it examines the influence of perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, and social influence on continuance intention, with attitude as a mediating variable. A survey of 392 Indonesian users was conducted, and data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that perceived usefulness does not directly influence continuance intention but rather exerts an indirect effect by shaping users’ attitudes. In contrast, perceived enjoyment and social influence significantly affect continuance intention both directly and indirectly through attitude. Furthermore, attitude exerts a strong influence on continuance intention, serving as a full mediator between perceived usefulness and continuance intention and as a partial mediator in relationships involving perceived enjoyment and social influence. These findings emphasize that sustaining user engagement with online learning platforms is determined not only by functional benefits but also by emotional experiences and social dynamics. The study highlights the critical role of attitude as a psychological bridge between user perceptions and behavioral intentions, offering practical implications for designing platforms that foster enjoyable experiences and supportive social environments to enhance long-term user retention.