Development of a distance education attitude scale for lifelong learning (DEAS-LLL): a validity and reliability study

In recent times, the utilization of distance education (DE) has witnessed a notable surge across various sectors, particularly amidst the backdrop of pandemics. This study aimed to develop a comprehensive Distance Education Attitude Scale tailored for Lifelong Learning (LLL) contexts. Methodologically, the research enlisted the participation of 260 physicians, employing a five-point Likert scale design. The content validity index yielded an impressive score of 0.92. Following a rigorous 48-item pilot application among 30 physicians, a refined 37-item draft scale emerged. Through explanatory factor analysis, the scale revealed a robust 4-factor structure comprising 22 items. Model fit indices, gauged through confirmatory factor analysis, underscored the scale's coherence and alignment. In the test-retest phase, an analysis utilizing Pearson Correlation Coefficient yielded a robust correlation coefficient of r = 0.891, signifying high stability over time. Moreover, a paired-sample t-test revealed non-significant differences (t = −0.041, p:0.968), further affirming the scale's reliability. With a commendable Cronbach's alpha value of 0.946, the finalized "Distance Education Attitude Scale in Lifelong Learning" stands as a validated and highly reliable instrument, particularly among physicians. Its applicability extends to academic inquiries regarding distance education and holds promise for validation across diverse adult learning cohorts.