No more iTa`leEM : exploring lecturers` discontinuance of the LMS

Abstract

This study is a phenomenological exploration of IIUM lecturers` discontinuance of the university`s learning management system, iTa`LeEM. The exploration was based on Rogers` (2003) diffusion of innovations theory that explains why and how technology adoption occurs. In addition to understand the lecturers` discontinuance decisions and behaviour, the study also identifies the role of the authority units in mediating their discontinuance decisions of the LMS. The participants were three lecturers from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) who stopped using iTa`LeEM and opted for a "better" virtual learning platform. An interview guide was prepared to extract themes and answers for the study`s research questions. The findings show that Rogers` (2003) five attributes of innovation were the principal driving factors of the discontinuance. Specifically, relative advantage, complexity and compatibility were three key attributes that prompted the lecturers` decisions to quit using iTa`LeEM. Their discontinuance process and patterns also fit into the discontinuance-decision stages suggested by Parthasarathy (1995). The study has enabled a better understanding of discontinuers` profiles as explicated in Rogers` (2003) adopter categorization. Based on the findings, the study suggests that the relevant authorities in IIUM look into the features and general usability of iTa`LeEM to ensure its continued adoption and sustainability among lecturers.