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.