Using Innovation Diffusion Theory to Understand the Factors Impacting the Adoption of Competency-Based Applications

This paper presents a case study based on Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory designed to gather learner opinions regarding the use of competency-based applications in technology-enhanced learning. In particular, a questionnaire was designed to measure the satisfaction of learners with a Competency Management, Development and Tracking Tool, called CMD2T, which can be integrated into virtual learning environments in order to provide users with a practical way to assess, track, and prove competencies associated with a given course. To test the reliability and validity of the proposed questionnaire, two statistical methods have been used. The Cronbach's alpha test was performed to check the internal consistency of each subscale comprising the questionnaire as well as the entire questionnaire. Besides, different validity procedures have been used to assess its validity, including construct validity using factor analysis, convergent and discriminant validity. Results of factor analysis and learner satisfaction measurement indicated that the questionnaire is proved to be a reliable instrument to measure learners' satisfaction and that the proposed CMD2T tool is very useful and highly appreciated by teachers and students. This paper, also, aims to show how a new questionnaire to assess learners' satisfaction can be validated. Hence, researchers who have a similar issue related to measuring learners' satisfaction about an innovative competence-based tool can potentially benefit from the paper's results.