Empowering Economics Education: Exploring ERP Integration Through Sem in Ukraine

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to analyze the relationships between digital skills of participants in the educational process, their readiness for digital transformation, and the barriers to technology integration in economic education in Ukraine, with a particular focus on the implementation of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. The study also aims to examine how awareness of digital technologies and perceptions of their benefits influence educational outcomes and professional preparedness. Methodology. The research employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to investigate the relationships between key constructs, including technology awareness, perceived usefulness, educational readiness, digital skills, barriers to implementation, readiness for change, and students’ preparedness for professional activity. The empirical analysis is based on a dataset of 256 respondents (ID 1–256) collected through an online survey conducted between May and August 2025 among individuals involved in economic education in Ukraine. The questionnaire was designed to assess respondents’ awareness, perceptions, and readiness to integrate modern digital technologies (AI, blockchain, ERP, RPA, and digital educational platforms) into the training of economic specialists, as well as the availability of technological resources at the university level. The survey included 33 Likert-scale items covering demographic characteristics, professional experience, digital competencies, attitudes toward emerging technologies, access to infrastructure, alignment of curricula with labour market needs, and barriers to technology integration. The instrument provided both quantitative and qualitative insights into participants’ experiences. Results. The findings demonstrate that digital competencies and perceived usefulness of technologies significantly influence readiness for digital transformation and learning effectiveness. Organizational support and systematic user training are identified as critical success factors for ERP implementation. Furthermore, technology awareness and readiness for change mediate the relationship between digital skills and students’ preparedness. The integration of ERP systems enhances practical competencies in business process management and strengthens analytical thinking. Practical implications. The results provide a foundation for improving economic education through the systematic integration of ERP systems into curricula. The study highlights the importance of investing in digital skills development, academic staff training, and institutional support mechanisms to ensure effective technology adoption and alignment with labour market demands. Value / originality. The paper contributes to the literature by offering an integrated empirical SEM-based model linking digital competencies, ERP adoption, and educational outcomes in the context of Ukraine, providing a scientifically grounded approach to modernising economic education and enhancing graduates’ competitiveness in the global labour market.