International Journal of Education and Development using ICT

International Journal of Education and Development using ICT > Vol. 21, No. 1 (2025)

Factors Influencing Adoption of e-Learning for Teaching and Learning Among First-Year Students at A Historically Disadvantaged University in South Africa: Applying the UTAUT Model

Mbonisi Maku, Walter Sisulu University
Ernest Nikisi, Walter Sisulu University
Omobayo Ayokunle Esan, Walter Sisulu University
Munienge Mbodila, Walter Sisulu University
Patrick Bwowe, Walter Sisulu University

Abstract
The rapid growth in information communication technology (ICT) usage has brought remarkable changes in higher education. Many higher education institutions around the globe are adopting e-learning platforms as one of the primary ways of delivering teaching and learning among students. During the COVID-19 pandemic, South African higher education institutions utilised the e-learning platform for effective collaborative teaching and learning between teachers and learners. This study investigates the factors that influenced the adoption of technology by first-year Walter Sisulu University (WSU) students. Interviews were conducted with students to explore their perceptions of the use of e-learning and what factors positively or negatively affected their e-learning experiences. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model was used to interpret the results. The findings show that, in general, the students have a very positive attitude towards e-learning, and they perceived that e-learning enhanced their educational experience. The communication aspect was especially important for historically disadvantaged universities in South Africa, as it facilitated a feeling of belonging to the global community of students and scholars and alleviated the former apartheid-torn country’s isolation. However, some socio-cultural aspects of students’ communities negatively affected their e-learning experience.

Full Text: PDF

Research
Support Tool