Examining the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Hospitality Student Attitudes toward E-learning

Research suggests that emotions and emotional intelligence are related to student motivation. Additionally, instructional design is known to influence student attitudes and subsequent content engagement; therefore, this study examined the relationship between students' attitudes towards E-learning and their emotional intelligence. The emotional intelligence of 33 postsecondary hospitality students was assessed using Bar-On's EQ-i:S. Students were then directed to a computer-based lesson. Upon completion, student attitudes towards the computer-based delivery were assessed using Keller's Instructional Material Motivation Survey. Pre- and post-tests were performed to assess knowledge gain. In general, as students' ESI increased, their attitude towards the computer-based instruction also increased. Students with average-high ESI expressed significantly more positive attitudes towards the instruction than those with low-average ESI.