Are We There Yet?: An Exploratory Predictive Study of Instructor Acceptance of an Educational Tablet Computer

This study used aspects of the classical Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to predict instructor acceptance and adoption of a tablet computer (tablet PC) for mobile learning in a Ghanaian higher education institution. Following a distribution of a customized tablet PC (known as Campus Companion) to all instructors of the institution, and an expectation that they will use these devices to support and facilitate mobile learning, data on instructor perceptions, attitudes, and behavioral intention to use the technology were gathered and analyzed. Thirty-eight (38) instructors participated in the study. Findings show that instructors' intentions to use the tablet PC for mobile learning are very low, and are significantly influenced by their perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and attitude towards the device. Implications of these findings for practice and further research are discussed within the context of the adoption of tablet PCs for mobile learning within the Ghanaian higher education context in particular and the developing world in general.