E-Learning technologies adoption framework for enhanced productivity of small and medium enterprises in Kenya
Date
2016
Authors
Thuo, Nicholas Mbugua
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
The potential of e-learning in transforming the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through its effects on employee productivity and hence organizational output is acknowledged in literature in both developing and developed countries. The ubiquitous nature of e-learning offers unlimited opportunity for employees to engage in learning and act as a catalyst for transformation through lifelong learning. However, there is a dearth of empirical evidence in the Kenyan context on adoption of e-learning in SMEs as well as success. The purpose of this study was therefore to examine usage of e-learning by SMEs and the outcomes as measured by performance of SMEs in Kenya with a view to proposing a framework for enhanced adoption of e-learning in these organizations. The study was guided by the Roger’s Diffusion of Innovation Theory, a theory that identifies the determinants of the uptake of an innovation such as e-learning. The study adopted the descriptive design entailing a survey of 100 HR Managers and 100 employees of SMEs in the 2015-16 top 100 SMEs from a survey done annually by KPMG Kenya and Nation Media Group. A sample of 50 HR Managers and 50 employees were selected for the survey using simple random sampling techniques and purposive sampling respectively. The SME HR questionnaire and the SME Employee questionnaire were used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data on the extent, determinants, and outcomes of use of e-learning in the SMEs. Quantitative data analysis was done through descriptive statistics to demonstrate the extent, outcomes and challenges of adoption of e-learning in SMEs. Qualitative through thematic grouping and descriptions. With regards to the extent of adoption of e-learning in the SMEs the study found limited adoption of e-learning, with only 10 firms out of the study 50 SMEs reporting adoption. On the influence of employer factors on adoption, the perceptions were positive on all aspects such as innovativeness and IT competencies. On the employee aspects of e-learning usage, the study found positive perceptions on ease of use and user satisfaction, which were in turn, proxy measures of satisfaction with the quality of the information on the system and the system itself. On the outcomes of e-learning on employers and employees, the study reported positive perceptions on these outcomes. The most influential barriers were organizational and technical. The study therefore concludes that although there is limited adoption of e-learning among SMEs, there are many positive characteristics among adopting firms. The study therefore recommends more support for infrastructure to support e-learning for SMEs among government and the business sector and more studies on the influence of pedagogical aspects such as content and media design.
Description
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Computer Based Information Systems
Keywords
E-learning, Technology, Productivity, Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs, Kenya