Key factors that influence the diffusion and infusion of information and communication technologies in Kenyan higher education

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that in the higher education sector, information and communication technology (ICT) provides the impetus for change from the traditional concepts of teaching and learning, as well as prime motivation behind the change in scholarly and professional activities. This underscores the importance of ICT in higher education in achieving the goal of providing flexible teaching and learning environments. Consequently, the aim of this study was to answer the empirical question as to what environmental, technological, organizational and individual factors are most likely to influence choice behaviour to use ICT in student learning in Kenyan higher education. Path analysis statistical techniques in structural equation modelling were used. The findings show that environmental, technological, organizational and individual factors play a significant role in ICT diffusion and infusion. It was further observed that the effects of some factors including availability of ICT, access to ICT, and the characteristics of the institution's chief executive officer play a pivotal role in ICT diffusion in a developing country context. This study produced useful insights into the factors that influence technology acceptance decisions by students, and provided new ideas for the management of ICT diffusion and infusion.