Table 1 Question items and references.

Perceived usefulness (PU)

PU1

Using simulation software helps me to understand knowledge.

²¹

PU2

Using simulation software helps me to practice what I learn.

PU3

Using simulation software can help me improve my learning (research) abilities.

¹⁵

PU4

Without simulation software, it would be very difficult for me to accomplish my learning (research) tasks.

Perceived ease of use (PEU)

PEU1

Learning how to use simulation software is easy.

⁴⁷

PEU2

Using simulation software is easy for me.

PEU3

I find it easy to recover from errors encountered while using simulation software.

¹⁵

PEU4

The simulation software system provides helpful guidance in performing tasks.

Students’ satisfaction (SS)

SS1

I am satisfied with the function of simulation software for my learning (research).

⁴⁸

SS2

I enjoy the learning (research) experience through using simulation software.

SS3

It is a wise choice to use simulation software for learning (research).

SS4

I believe that simulation software is an excellent learning tool.

²¹

Task characteristics (TAC)

TAC1

When I use simulation software for study, I often need to simulate various scenarios that occur during the operation of the system.

⁴⁹

TAC2

When I use simulation software for study, my task involves conducting simulation analysis.

TAC3

My study tasks require me to conduct simulation analysis on systems.

Technology characteristics (TEC)

TEC1

Simulation software provides simulation capabilities for various operating scenarios of systems.

⁴⁹

TEC2

The simulation analysis function of simulation software is very useful.

TEC3

Simulation software can help me design or conduct simulation experiments.

Task‒technology fit (TTF)

TTF1

The simulation software meets my needs.

⁴⁹

TTF2

It is easy to know which function to use during the process of using simulation software.

TTF3

Using simulation software is appropriate to help me with my tasks.

Continuance intention towards simulation software (CIS)

CIS1

I would not give up using simulation software for learning (research) midway.

⁴⁴

CIS2

I intend to continue learning (research) through simulation software rather than using other methods.

CIS3

I plan to continue using simulation software in the future or at least maintain the same level of activity as I do now.

Basic information

Gender (select one answer choice): (A) Male; (B) Female.

Academic stage (select one answer choice): (A) Freshman; (B) Sophomore; (C) Junior; (D) Senior; (E) Graduate; (F) Doctoral.

Simulation software commonly used by students in their research and studies (multiple choices are possible): (A) Alitium; (B) Protues; (C) MATLAB; (D) CFX; (E) Abques; (F) Multisim; (G) Others.

Experience with simulation software (select one answer choice): A. Half a year; B.1 year; C. 2 years; D. 3 years; E. More than 3 years.