Factors Affecting the use of Smartphones for Learning: A Proposed Model

Abstract

Increased functionalities of smartphones, such as providing easy access to the internet, have offered multiple learning opportunities, especially in a world surrounded by unprecedented periods like COVID'19. Despite the benefits of smartphones mentioned above, academics still have significant concerns about the effective utilisation of these technological devices by students for learning purposes. This paper aims to examine the factors affecting the use of smartphones for learning. The study utilised a quantitative method to pursue its aim and objectives. Data were gathered from 80 academic staff members from five Departments under the Faculty of Accounting & Informatics. A stratified sampling approach was applied to ensure a more realistic and accurate estimation of the population had been used. After applying the above approach, a simple random sampling method was used for this population according to the number of academic staff members in the above-mentioned departments. The data were analysed to ensure reliability and validity, and descriptive statistics were applied, and correlations identified to develop the proposed model. The outcomes indicate that academic staff members believe that Attitudes towards Smartphones, Facilitating Conditions, Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Usefulness, and Performance Expectations significantly impact the use of smartphones for learning. This study was limited to academic staff from five departments of a single faculty at a South African University of Technology.