Utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) for Predicting Usage and Adoption of an iBook© in Online Graduate Nursing Courses

Purpose:

Little is known about the use of iBooks©, in fact,  “Inspiring  Future Nurse Educators” is currently the only known iBook native to the iAuthor©software.  As with any new technology, it is vital to assess the likelihood of adoption by faculty and learners.  This study adapted the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Ventakesh and Bala, 2008). to examine perceptions of usefulness, attitude and preferences in an effort to predict faculty acceptance of the iBook© format. The purpose of this presentation is to share research outcomes related to the degree faculty would adopt an iBook© for use in online graduate nursing programs. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was used to examine perceptions of usefulness, attitude and preferences to predict faculty acceptance of the iBook© format.

Methods:

 A survey method design was used to study the research hypotheses.

 H1: Perceived usefulness (PU) will have a significant influence on attitude towards usage (ATU).

H2:  Perceived ease of use (PEOU) will have a significant influence on attitude towards usage (ATU).

H3:  Perceived ease of use (PEOU) will have a significant influence on perceived usefulness (PU).

H4:  Attitude towards usage (ATU) will have a significant influence on users’ behavioral intention to use (BIU) an iBook.

Results:

The iBook was reviewed by faculty who teach online courses.  Faculty downloaded the iBook onto their ipads so they would have full access to the interactive links. Faculty varied in experience from novice to very experienced in using iBooks to novice users, with 64% reporting they are advanced users of technology.

Once reviewing the iBook, 100% faculty stated they were generally favorable attitude toward using iBooks, and found the iBook easy to use. 79% of faculty stated they intend to use iBooks frequently for teaching.

Conclusion:

The iBook was positively received by faculty who teach online courses. Interactive textbooks may have the potential to change the way educators and learners meet learning objectives. Comments provided by the study participants will be implemented in the editing and updating of the iBook.  A replicated study is planned to include a larger pool of faculty teaching at other online nursing programs.