Abstract:
Despite many years of study and propositions of various models understanding the adoption of new Information
and Communication Technologies (ICT)has been one of the most challenging issues. Uptake of new ICT
innovations involves fulfilling many requirements ranging from technical to human. This study used the Unified
Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model as an assessment framework to understand the
student’s behavioral intention on acceptance and use of technology. The study was conducted at Moi university
which is one the public universities in Kenya. Closed and open-ended questionnaires were administered to 500
students. Staff members who were involved in the management of the targeted information systems were also
interviewed. A total of 414 questionnaires were returned accounting to 82.8% response rate. The reliability
yielded Cronbach’s output of 0.8231. The results indicated that effort expectancy, performance expectancy and
social influence factors affect the student’s behavioral intention, which ultimately affects adoption of web based
information system. The model explained 78.24% of the variance of the student’s behavioral intention to use
web based information systems. Among the moderating factors only course of study had significant effect on
intention of adoption of web based information system. Notably, students who were taking ICT related courses
such as Information Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science and Informatics had high adoption rate. The
research findings from this study would be useful to institutions of higher learning, policy makers, researchers in
the field, students and other stakeholders.
