UNDERSTANDING XR TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE BY PHYSICALLY DISABLED TOURISTS IN MUSEUMS

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the effects of XR technologies on the behavioral intentions of disabled tourists using a modified Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Design – The model includes perceived trust, perceived control, perceived efficacy, and perceived enjoyment as determinants of technology acceptance by disabled tourists. The hypotheses derived from the literature were empirically tested. Methodology/Approach – The proposed model was tested by collecting data from 640 disabled tourists in Iran over a six-month period. An online survey was answered after watching two videos, representing the application of VR and AR. A quantitative method was applied, the PLS-SEM method was conducted to analyze the data. Findings – The model was significantly supported by the results on the determinants of attitudes of people with disabilities toward XR technology. Other than the effect of perceived efficiency on PEOU, all the hypotheses were supported, demonstrating the positive effects of each of factors on the attitudes of disabled tourists and their behavioral intentions towards XR technology. Originality of the research – This study significantly expands the academic knowledge on the fundamental factors affecting behavioural intentions of disabled tourists, as 15% of the world’s population. This is the first study to investigate these factors in relation to the disabled tourists and XR technologies. This study will provide insight to marketers and stakeholders on the behavioral intentions of disabled tourists.