The Factors That Influence the Use of Cloud-Based Technology in the Administration of Social Work Field Education: An Application of the Technology Acceptance Model
Date
2023-08
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Abstract
Problem Statement. As social work education programs have expanded, there is a desire to understand how cloud-based technology can better support field education administrators with the student placement process and potentially reduce workload.
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that influence the frequency of technology use in the administration of social work field education.
Theoretical Framework: The researcher used the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the underlying theoretical framework to examine the historical challenges and opportunities for social workers to embrace technology (Bullock & Colvin, 2015).
Methodology. This study used a survey-method quantitative research design. Five hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression to understand the factors that influence the use of cloud-based technology solutions in the master of social work field education placement process and the frequency of use.
Findings. The data indicate high levels of perceived technology knowledge among field education directors. Ease of use was the most significant factor in predicting the use of technology. Additionally, more than 30% of field education directors do not have access to field placement software.
Conclusions and Recommendations. Current data indicate the need for field directors to be knowledgeable of technology and for information technology solutions to be easy to use.
Description
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Doctor of Education
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Keywords
Social Work, Higher Education, Information Technology