The mediating effect of perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in the acceptance of e-training in the Nigerian civil service

This study examined the mediating effects of perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) in the acceptance of e-training in the Nigerian civil service. Modified Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) for developing countries was used to examine the influence of perceived cost, computer self-efficacy, technological infrastructures, internet facilities, power supply, organisational support, technical support and government support in the acceptance of e-training. Cross-sectional research design was utilized and data was collected from 450 heads of department in the federal ministries in North Central and North Western zones in Nigeria. Partial Least Square (PLS) of the Structural Equation modelling method was used for analysis where both the measurement model and structural model of the research framework were tested. Results of the measurement model analysis indicated reliability and validity of the study constructs. The structural model results indicated that out of the 26 relationships hypothesized, only 13 were supported: 9 for direct relationships and 4 for mediating relationships. It was found that PU, PEOU, perceived cost and technological infrastructure were significantly related to e-training acceptance. Likewise, computer self-efficacy, technological infrastructure, power supply and technical support were significantly related to PEOU. Furthermore, it was found that PU partially mediated the relationship between PEOU and e-training acceptance. PEOU also partially mediated the relationship between technological infrastructures but fully mediated the relationship between power supply, technical support and e-training acceptance. These findings showed the importance of these factors in encouraging e-training acceptance in various departments and agencies in the Nigeria civil service. This study will be beneficial for policy makers in the public service in developing policies regarding e-training. Limitations encountered were the inability to include other sections of the public service as well as other zones in the country