Abstract
This article aims to examine the relationship between selected behavioral factors and Global Positioning System (GPS) usage among small-scale fishers in Malaysia. An adapted version of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) was tested among a sample of 400 small-scale fishers to examine the relationship between technology-related behavioral constructs (compatibility, social influence, effort expectancy, learning culture, and performance expectancy) and GPS usage. The sample was selected from 12 fishery districts in Malaysia. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) confirmed that all five technology-related behavioral constructs included in the model recorded a significant relationship with GPS usage. The results extend the generalizability of the UTAUT to a previously understudied setting of community technology usage. Understanding GPS usage among small-scale fishers from the extended UTAUT perspective can provide policy makers, public, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and other concerned parties with knowledge that can build awareness and shape capacity building efforts for small-scale interventions to increase the use of GPS. This will, in turn, reduce the risks associated with fishing routines and enhance fishing yields.
Highlights
Small-scale fishers (SSF) in many countries are reporting multiple threats to their collective livelihood (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations [FAO], 2015; Shaffril et al, 2013, 2015)
We aimed to address three specific concerns in the study, namely, the need to better understand contributors to technology usage among Malaysian SSF, the need to better understand the usage of specific technologies such as Global Positioning System (GPS), and the need for a systematic investigation to determine salient factors that fit the context of GPS usage among SSF
The original UTAUT model includes three moderating variables—gender, age, and experience—and two mediating variables—voluntariness and behavioral intention, the current study focuses on the direct relationships between the technology-related behavioral constructs and GPS usage
Summary
Small-scale fishers (SSF) in many countries are reporting multiple threats to their collective livelihood (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations [FAO], 2015; Shaffril et al, 2013, 2015). Most SSF are located in remote areas where they have narrow access to markets, health, and social services. The FAO (2015) accentuated the lack of opportunities available for SSF involvement in alternative livelihoods, youth unemployment, unhealthy and unsafe working conditions, forced labor, and child labor, while having to face the negative impact of pollution, climate change, and natural disasters. These threats further burden SSF who already face challenges in making their voices heard, defending their human and tenure rights, and sustaining limited resources. Despite its proven effectiveness at helping SSF increase their yields (Bolong et al, 2013; Omar et al, 2012), few studies exist to explain the factors that facilitate GPS usage by SSF
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
