An Extended TAM Model, for Evaluating eLearning Acceptance, Digital Learning and Smart Tool Usage

Abstract

The learning habits among students in higher education, has radically changed in the last 20 years, partially due to the features of the information and digital society, wide scale broadband internet access, proliferation of smart devices and consequently, available online mobile applications.As a result, the use of eLearning systems, in higher education, is a must in the 21 st Century.As hardware and software developments periodically foster each other's progression, the technological developments, including more and more sophisticated eLearning platforms and available mobile applications, triggers a multiplicative, radical change in educational practices and methodologies.This paper presents an extended version of the Technology Acceptance Model (xTAM), applying Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the AMOS program.It focuses on the motivation and usage intention of eLearning systems, among early Z generation students, in higher education and highlights the digital learning aspects and smart tool usages in the Hungarian environment.The evaluation of the above external factors illustrates the behavior of students, when using eLearning systems.