Informatics Publishing Limited

Prateek , Versha Mehta

Abstract

Advanced information technology has become an important means of conducting day-to-day business and life-activities. Strong telecommunication infrastructure is imperative to actively participate in the global information economy. However, new market entrants for wireless communications such as Wi-Fi (wireless infidelity) and WIMAX have swiftly replaced existing fixed line mode of communications with their new applications and services. Present empirical study was carried out for the purpose of assessing the effect of a number of determinants to affect the use of free Wi-Fi by university students pursuing higher studies, the mediating effect of attitude towards formation of usage of Wi-Fi and finally acceptance of Wi-Fi technology. The study uses constructs from information technology, human resource management, industrial psychology and, diffusion and consumer adoption of innovation. Quantitative data (N=30) were collected through self-administrated questionnaire from university students especially research scholars. Data are analyzed using logistics and multiple regressions. The results provide effect of the proposed factors where relative advantage, facilitating conditions, and wireless trust environment are found to be strong determinants of attitude towards Wi-Fi usage. Technology Complexity is found to be strongly but negatively affect Wi-Fi usage. Social influence is found to have less effect on attitude towards formation of Wi-Fi usage. Study proposes a model that reveals positive effect of attitude towards Wi-Fi usage on technology acceptance. Six propositions are developed to promote and facilitate future empirical research relating to Wi-Fi usage.

Keywords

Technology Acceptance Model, Wireless Infidelity, Industrial Psychology, Diffusion, Adoption of Innovation

Full Text