Identification of critical factors affecting the students’ acceptance of Learning Management System (LMS) in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective of the study: The objective is to identify factors that influence student’s acceptance of Learning Management System (LMS) using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model.  This study investigates how UTAUT factors affect students’ intention and attitudes to use Blackboard as a LMS at King Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia.Methodology/approach: This study proposes a research model based on UTAUT factors ‘Effort Expectancy (EE), Performance Expectancy (PE), Perceived Functionality (PF), Facilitating Condition (FC), Social Influence (SI)’, Behavioural Intention to use (BI) and Usage Behaviour.   The survey research methodology was adopted using questionnaire to identifying factors that influencing the students’ intention and attitudes towards LMS. Originality/relevance: The study relates corporate LMS to support educational institutions to enhance the students’ acceptance and attitudes to use in Saudi Arabia.Main result: The results indicate that PE, PF, FC and SI factors were significant and directly influence on students' BI Blackboard. Both PE and FC are second factors that affect students’ intention and EE factor does not impact the student's BI.Theoretical/methodological contributions: The study contributes to the body of knowledge in developing the research model using UTAUT model by showing the factors affecting the students’ intention in using LMS and usage behavior in Saudi Arabia. Social/management contributions: This study contributes in understanding the critical factors affecting the Saudi Arabia students’ intentions in using Blackboard. Another study should be extended to other universities by using different methods to test the model and incorporate different moderating factors to accept and use the Blackboard.