The Role of Personal Traits and Learner’s Perceptions on the Adoption of E-learning Systems in Higher Learning Institutions

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of personal traits and learner’s perceptions through the lens of Technology Readiness Index (TRI) and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Data were collected using questionnaire from students in six (6) higher learning institutions in Tanzania. Data analysis employed a structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. The study found that optimism, and discomfort constructs have an influence on effort expectancy and performance expectancy of e-learning systems, while insecurity has an influence on effort expectancy only. Furthermore, the study found that effort expectancy and social influence have positive influence on intention to adopt e-learning systems, while intention to adopt e-learning systems has significant relationship with actual usage of the systems. The study recommends higher learning institutions to develop e-learning policies that focus on improving effort expectancy, awareness of the benefits of elearning systems, encouraging social pressure and behavioral intention to lure more students to adopt e-learning systems. These policies should also take into account a leaner’s personal traits such as optimism, discomfort and insecurity to make them effective.