Date of Award

Summer 7-28-2016

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)

Department

Information Technology

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Richard Halstead-Nussloch, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Rebecca Rutherfoord, Ed.D.

Third Advisor

Guangzhi Zheng, Ph.D.

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to determine the perceived effectiveness of e-learning for staff members in public libraries. In addition, the effects of user demographics - including a user’s age and gender - were analyzed to determine if these factors impacted the perceived effectiveness of e-learning as a training delivery model.

Davis’s Technology Acceptance Model (1989) was used to develop a questionnaire related to the perceived effectiveness and value of e-learning, and a survey of public library staff members across the United States was conducted. Results of the survey showed the impact that previous e-learning experience and the user's age had on the perception of this method of instruction; younger staff members and those who had previously completed e-learning modules were more likely to consider it to be an effective way to learn new information. The survey results provide valuable implications for organizations using e-learning as a component of a technology acceptance program and can help inform decisions related to the implementation of e-learning programs. Best practices in the development of technology training programs and opportunities for additional studies are also discussed.

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