A Framework for the Impact of Human Factors on the Effectiveness of Learning Management Systems

Higher education institutions (HEI) have realized the advantages of implementing a blended learning environment by using learning management systems (LMSs) to provide effective ways of learning and teaching. However, recent literature has revealed that developing countries' educational institutions fail when they adopt LMS technologies because they ignore the human factors related to these technologies. This study investigated the impact of human factors on the effectiveness of LMS in a blended learning environment at Kuwait's HEIs (KHEIs). In this paper, a pragmatic approach consisting of quantitative and qualitative methods is used. User characteristics traits from the literature review were organized into three main indicators of human impact on the effectiveness of LMS: technological characteristics, psychological characteristics, and student-instructor interaction characteristics. After these indicators were identified, a conceptual model was developed to study the characteristics. A deductive approach was used, and the model was tested for significance through receiving feedback from the universities' students and faculty members. In addition, an inductive approach was implemented through conducting interviews to explore more factors related to the effectiveness of LMS. The inductive approach's results revealed the relevant factors for the usage of the LMS, such as training, needs, expectations, and branding. The human factors that positively affect the success and effectiveness of LMS included attitude, enjoyment, experience, self-efficacy, and promptness, which had the most substantial impacts on user satisfaction. The modified conceptual model that this paper presents includes these impacting factors and provides an acceptable fit to the data. This research has developed an updated framework for demonstrating the effectiveness of LMS as it pertains to human factors, and its findings can be used to enhance user experience in a blended learning environment, thus improving the quality of Kuwaiti education.