Factors Influencing the Adoption of E-Learning in Jordan: an Extended TAM Model

Abstract

This study examines the factors contributing to attitudes towards E-Learning in higher education among students in Jordan. The research developed a TAM-EL (Technology Acceptance Model for E-learning) for predicting the intention to adopt E-Learning using the constructs of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). TAM-EL proposes that Perception of usefulness of technology, Perception of ease of use of the technology, Patronised (degree of support for the technology), and Practised (previous experience with the technology) influence attitude towards the adoption of E-Learning. Data was collected from 380 undergraduate students to test the model. Factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to validate the instrument, however; the partial least square method was used to test the model for the study, moreover; stepwise regression analysis were used to test the hypotheses of the study. The findings indicate that students have an important role as stakeholders in the adoption of E-Learning in Jordan. While the variable of Attitude contributes to approximately 57% of the variance in the Prediction of E-Learning, the variable of Patronised contributes only approximately 28% of the variance in the Prediction of E-Learning. Moreover, the findings show an obvious recommendation is the need to engage users in a more determined manner.

Keywords: E-Learning; Technology Acceptance Model for E-Learning (TAM-EL); Perception; Patronised; Practised.