Course management software adoption: a diffusion of innovations perspective

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the adoption of course management software (CMS) among faculty in a nursing program in order to better understand the consequences that result from adoption decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was taken using a component of diffusion of innovations theory as a framework for exploring the research questions.

Findings

Diffusion of innovations theory suggests there are three dimensions of consequences that should be analyzed: desirable versus undesirable consequences; direct versus indirect consequences; and anticipated versus unanticipated consequences. Consistent with Roger's theory, direct and anticipated consequences of adoption of a CMS by faculty went together. In addition, the research findings were consistent with Roger's theory in that it was difficult to separate desirable from undesirable consequences resulting from the innovation of course management system adoption.

Originality/value

The results of this research support Roger's theory while raising a number of new questions. A problem was identified with the classification of desirable versus undesirable consequences. Further research is recommended to clarify these consequences categories, while taking into account the perspectives of people who have different roles during the change process. This study only included faculty using the course management system. Additional research should focus upon the consequences of CMS use for students.

Citation

Kilmon, C. and Helen Fagan, M. (2007), "Course management software adoption: a diffusion of innovations perspective", Campus-Wide Information Systems, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 134-144. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650740710742736