An Implementation of the UTAUT Model for Understanding Students' Perceptions of Learning Management Systems: A Study Within Tertiary Institutions in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The rapid growth of e-learning around the globe is inspiring various academic institutions to adopt it. Uptake is motivated by convincing benefits such as flexibility, accessibility and the management of course delivery. In fact, academic institutions place great emphasis on e-learning and are investing significantly in information technology infrastructures. However, in spite of this effort and investment, it seems that instructors and students do not always fully benefit from the learning technology and more often learning management systems (LMSs) remain underutilized. Thus, this study adopts the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to study how people accept and use the Blackboard system. The data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) techniques to test the hypothesized research model. The empirical results found that technical support is fundamental in determining the acceptance and use of e-learning systems. The findings of the study may help to provide insights into a better approach to promote e-learning acceptance.