DEVELOPING A HAPPINESS INDEX FOR HIGHER EDUCATION: A MULTI-STAGE APPROACH AT SAIGON UNIVERSITY USING DELPHI, PILOT TESTING, PLS-SEM, AND ANN

Abstract

This research introduces and rigorously validates a multidimensional Happiness Index for Higher Education (HIHE) employing a systematic four-phase scale development approach. The initial phase utilised a Delphi survey to establish the principal variables of student satisfaction through expert consensus. This was succeeded by pilot testing to verify that the measurement items were contextually relevant and unambiguously understood. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was applied to assess the linear interrelationships among the components, while Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) were employed to identify the most salient predictors and to capture intricate non-linear patterns. Data were obtained from SGU students using purposive sampling administered via an online questionnaire. The findings indicate that Respect (RES), Student Feedback and Suggestions (SF), and Life Satisfaction (LIS) represent the most significant determinants of student satisfaction, whereas Learning, Arts, and Culture (LAC) exhibited no meaningful effect. These results substantiate the scale’s reliability and theoretical validity, providing practical guidance for higher education institutions seeking to foster student well-being through a respect-oriented culture, participatory governance, and comprehensive support systems.