Investigating learner attitudes toward e-books as learning tools: based on the activity theory approach

Abstract

This paper investigates the use of e-books as learning tools in terms of learner satisfaction, usefulness, behavioral intention, and learning effectiveness. Based on the activity theory approach, this research develops a research model to understand learner attitudes toward e-books in two physical sizes: 10″ and 7″. Results suggest that screen size could affect learners' perceived self-efficacy in using 10″ and 7″ e-books. Interactive learning environments, acceptable screen size, perceived self-regulation, and self-efficacy could positively influence perceived satisfaction with and usefulness of e-books as learning tools. Perceived satisfaction and usefulness are crucial factors in learner behavioral intention which, in turn, contributes to learning effectiveness. The paper also proposes a conceptual research model based on the activity theory approach.

Keywords:

• e-books
• activity theory
• learner attitudes
• social cognitive theory acceptable screen size

Acknowledgements

The research was partially supported by projects of NSC100-2628-S-025-001-MY3 and NSC101-2511-S-039-004-MY2.

Notes on contributors

Shu-Sheng Liaw, Ed.D, is a professor at China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan. His current research interests include information technology for learning (including e-learning, m-learning, computer support collaborative learning, and Virtual Reality for learning), learning theories, learners' attitudes and behavioral intention toward technology, and knowledge management. He is in the editorial board of Educational Research International, International Journal of Learning Technology, International Journal of Society System Science, The Scientific World Journal, International Journal of Education and Information Technologies, International Scholarly Research Network, etc. His research has been published in British Journal of Educational Technology, Canadian Journal of Learning and Technology, Computers & Education, Computers in Human Behavior, Educational Technology, Information Systems Management, Interactive Learning Environments, International Journal of Instructional Media, Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, Lecture Notes in Computer Science, Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering, Perceptual and Motor Skills, Psychological Reports, and WIT Transaction on Information and Communication Technologies.

Hsiu-Mei Huang is a Professor at the National Taichung University of Science and Technology in Taiwan. She obtained her Ed.D. in Instructional Technology of Education at Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, USA. She received her M.S. degree in Applied Mathematics from National Chung Hsing Unversity, and B.S. degree in Computer Science from Soochow University in Taiwan. Dr Huang's research interests are in e-learning, electronic commerce, and Virtual Reality learning. Her works has appeared in journals such as Computers & Education, British Journal of Educational Technology, Computers in Human Behaviors, Interactive Learning Environment, Educational Technology, International Journal of Instructional Media, Information Systems Management, and Pattern Recognition.