Academics’ e-learning adoption in higher education institutions: a matter of trust

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to examine how academics enact trust in e-learning through an inductive identification of perceived risks and enablers involved in e-learning adoption, in the context of higher education institutions (HEIs). Design/methodology/approach Grounded Theory was the methodology used to systematically analyse data collected in semi-structured interviews with 62 academics. Data analysis followed the constant comparative method and its three-staged coding approach: open, axial and selective coding. Findings The resulting trajectory of trust factors is presented in a Grounded Theory narrative where individual change and integration through shared collective understanding and institutionalisation are discussed as stages leading to the overcoming of e-learning adoption barriers. Originality/value The paper proposes that the interplay between institutionalism and individualism has implications in the success or failure of strategies for the adoption of e-learning in HEIs, as perceived by academics. In practical terms, this points to the need for close attention to contextually sensitive trust-building mechanisms that promote the balance between academics’ commitments, values and sense of self-worth and centrally planned policy, rules, resources and exhortations that enable action.

Dawn or dusk of the 5th age of research in educational technology? A literature review on (e-)leadership for technology-enhanced learning in higher education (2013-2017)

“…It is thus recommended that interdisciplinary teams collaborate on such research in order to reinforce synergies and ensure the best possible understanding of both worlds. In this respect, much can be learnt from the HE leadership and management literature, for example H. Davis' work on Leadership Literacies (Davis, 2012(Davis, , 2014Davis & Jones, 2014), and by continuing to develop the connections between leadership and change management for TEL (Martins & Baptista Nunes, 2016;Risquez & Moore, 2013). Further efforts to publish in education management journals should also be made, in order to increase the awareness of issues relating to the integration of technology for teaching and learning at HE governance level.…”

Transforming a First-year Accounting Course Using a Blended Learning Pathway

“…This change must take into consideration many aspects, such as needs of stakeholders, funding framework, career rewards, assessment methods, and drivers of curriculum, which might get rid of the current structure. For academics, their position within the traditional structure might be reconstructed, which might cause the resistance to change (Martins & Nunes, 2016a). Online learning requires an enhanced set of skills and attributes designed specifically for the online delivery of metacognitive, higher-order thinking skills, and lifelong learning (Nunes & McPherson, 2003).…”

Literature Review of Factors Affecting E-Learning Adoption in Universities

“…Cost: is generally Described as possibly Most Likely One of those Most significant challenges to EL adoption and execution. Tech is also crucial in digital learning, and it is likewise inconsistent and additional high priced producing the earliest rates of implementation along with continuing expenses of up-keep surplus [5]; [1]. Although worth of owning an internet operating-system may be the very first phase, especially in case that this program remains new or complicated, it has to be carried outside to supply the most team that's been climbing an object to choose to get The expense of this undertaking may be revised and After additional information were all got.…”

“…In the era of knowledge management and dissemination, e-learning has proven to be a cost-effective solution of delivering knowledge irrespective of time and geographical boundaries [4]. In addition, this learning approach has increased the interaction and communication of students not only amongst themselves but also with their instructors as well [5]. As a result, e-learning is growing at an astonishing rate among educational institutions to gain the maximum benefit of this new paradigm [6].…”