Information & Communication Technology Adoption Among Adults in South Western Nigeria: An Assessment of Usage-Phobia Factors

Abstract

Measures for predicting and explaining ICT adoption among different age groups have practical implications for educators, designers and vendors who would like to assess user preferences for new products. Studying how adults adopt and use technology is therefore premised on the fact that adults must keep up with technological advancements to be able to function effectively in the information age. Our investigation of factors affecting adult’s acceptance of ICT applications in South Western Nigeria is based on the Perceived Ease of Use (PEU) and Perceived Usefulness (PU) constructs. Selected ICT products and applications such as web access (for commercial, educational and social purposes), cell phones, Ipods, ATMs and e-Banking Platforms were employed as usage parameters. A multi-item questionnaire for PEU and PU was pre-tested, validated and administered. Findings from the study showed that the fear of using technology is subsumed by the benefits accruable from usage. Results from the study also gave insights into subtle but important factors that create ICT-Phobia among adults. We conclude by recommending acceptable use environment that will provide positive experiences with ICT products and applications among the target group.