Extending technology acceptance model (TAM) to measure the students’ acceptance of using digital tools during open and distance learning (ODL)

Abstract

Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak, we are taught to live in the new norm. Higher learning institutions are forced to adopt a new norm of open and distance learning (ODL) immediately. Since that, students are facing issues, especially in courses that need a conventional setting. During ODL, students and lecturers rely on digital tools, social media, pre-recorded video, and video conference to assist the learning process. However, there are unexplored topics on the students’ intention to use digital tools during ODL. A sample of 367 students who responded from different diploma and degree programs of Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Terengganu was collected via an online survey. Data collected are analysed on its correlation and coefficient determinant, regression, and analysis of actual use. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is expanded to include external factors of technology access and online learning skills to be measured with perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude, behaviour intention to use and actual system use. Findings on the study will help uncover significant understanding of students’ acceptance of ODL in using digital tools for a better decision-making and students’ support assistance. Hence, this study benefits us to foresee the possible future need for courses in conducting ODL successfully.