Impact of Innovations Attributes on e-learning Acceptance among Sri Lankan Postgraduate Students

Abstract

Though e learning is gaining much popularity in Sri Lanka, the actual and potential users of elearning facilities possess different perceptions towards the acceptance of e-learning technology. As e learning is considered to be an innovative method for the users, the Diffusion of Innovation theory identifies five attributes of innovation namely relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, observability which impact on the attitude and intention of using elearning by the users. Therefore examining the impact of innovation attributes on e learning acceptance in Sri Lankan postgraduates is more relevant as it helps to acquire the knowledge on how e learning acceptance is perceived by them. For this purpose random samples of 200 were drawn from the postgraduate students in local based universities in Sri Lanka and it was found that observability and relative advantage has a significant impact on attitude and intention of using e learning among the postgraduate students while least significant innovation attributes were found to be complexity and trialability.

Fostering Digital Education among Teachers and Learners in Sri Lankan Schools

“…While various e-learning initiatives have taken place in Sri Lanka in recent history, there is a need to bridge the internal digital and social gap that exists (Mozelius, Hewagamage & Hanson, 2011). Also, to reduce the complexity of e-learning as perceived by actual and potential users of e-learning facilities in Sri Lanka, development of more user-friendly techniques and e-learning environments, where potential benefits are clearly visible, are needed (Yatigammana, Johar & Gunawardena, 2013). Intending to increase educational opportunities throughout the country, use of e-learning, online course delivery, and innovative educational technologies have been expanded in the higher education institutions in Sri Lanka ( Dona & Warusavithana, 2014).…”