Factors affecting student attitudes toward flexible online learning in management education

In response to recent technological advances and the trend toward flexible learning in education, the authors examined the factors affecting student satisfaction with flexible online learning. The authors identified 2 key student attributes of student satisfaction: (a) positive perceptions of technology in terms of ease of access and use of online flexible learning material and (b) autonomous and innovative learning styles. The authors derived measures of perceptions of technology from research on the Technology Acceptance Model and used locus of control and innovative attitude as indicators of an autonomous and innovative learning mode. First-year students undertaking an introductory management course completed surveys at the beginning (n = 248) and at the end (n = 256) of course work. The authors analyzed the data by using structural equation modeling. Results suggest that student satisfaction is influenced by positive perceptions toward technology and an autonomous learning mode.

National culture, infrastructure, and costs: Factors that lead to the use of wireless technologies

This research-in-progress paper utilizes the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to assess the effects of National Culture, Infrastructure, and Access Costs on the adoption of Wireless Technologies in Australia. The cultural dimensions emanating from the GLOBE project were chosen because of their broad coverage and contemporary nature. Australia is unique in that it has one of the lowest population densities in the world. The provision of wireless technologies is challenging in such an environment, and I believe the model developed in this research will have applicability in other similarly populated countries.

Instant messaging: A cross-country comparison of factors affecting adoption

This research-in-progress paper utilizes the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to determine whether differences exist in the adoption of Instant Messaging (IM) Technologies in Australia, China, Mexico and the USA. Despite significant differences in the technology needed to implement IM (e.g., software supporting Chinese language characters), few barriers exist to the adoption of IM given the environment is in place. We postulate that language interface technology, infrastructure, and culture affect the adoption of IM technology.