Understanding the complexity of human characteristics on e-learning systems: an integrated study of dynamic individual differences on user perceptions of ease of use

Abstract

E-learning systems play an important role in providing just-in-time knowledge and learning in the 24/7 global marketplace. However, human factors are often overlooked in their design. In order to better understand how individual differences affect people's perceived ease of use of e-learning systems, this study investigates the mediating role of self-efficacy and computer anxiety between stable or situational individual differences and perceived ease of use. The results reveal that e-learning system self-efficacy, computer anxiety, personal innovativeness with IT, computer playfulness, and computer experience influence perceived ease of use. Moreover, both e-learning system self-efficacy and computer anxiety mediate the effect of computer experience on perceived ease of use, but only partially mediate the effects of personal innovativeness and computer playfulness on perceived ease of use. Finally, we show that people's stable factors related to the perception of ease of use are important determinants in using e-learning or knowledge management systems.