The moderating effect of technology optimism: How it affects students’ weblog learning

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to combine task-technology fit, theory of planned behaviour and individual technology optimism, and propose a better hybrid technology behavioural intention model to explain Taiwanese students’ usage behaviour for weblog learning.

Design/methodology/approach

A 31-item questionnaire with eight constructs was administered to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in three universities in Taiwan. A total of 380 voluntary, usable responses were received, and a research model estimated using Smart PLS was used to interpret the structural relation results.

Findings

The results of the research model were analysed using a structural equation modelling approach to test six hypotheses and three moderating hypotheses; significant support were found for seven of them. Accordingly, this study considered the level of technology optimism as a moderator to explore whether it impacts perceived behavioural control, attitudes and social influences on behavioural intention related to weblog learning.

Originality/value

This research provides a better understanding of individual and system characteristics, as well as social factors regarding weblog learning system acceptance and intention.

Citation

Chao, C.-M. and Yu, T.-K. (2019), "The moderating effect of technology optimism: How it affects students’ weblog learning", Online Information Review, Vol. 43 No. 1, pp. 161-180. https://doi.org/10.1108/OIR-11-2016-0316