Technostress and ICT Adoption among Senior Managers in Ugandan Public Universities.

Abstract

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in higher education has streamlined administration and teaching. However, it also creates unique stressors or technostress that can either facilitate or hinder adoption. In this study, we examined the relationship between technostress and ICT adoption among senior managers in Ugandan public universities. An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was used to collect survey and interview data from eighty-eight (88) senior managers across seven universities. Exploratory factor analysis revealed the multidimensionality of both technostress (complexity, overload, invasion, uncertainty, and insecurity) and ICT adoption (ease of use, acceptance, and usefulness). Regression analysis showed that technostress was a predictor of ICT adoption. Specifically, techno-complexity had a negative impact, while techno-overload and techno-invasion had positive impacts. Techno-insecurity and techno-uncertainty did not have a significant impact on ICT adoption. Qualitative data confirmed the quantitative findings, indicating that stressors like workload and constant connectivity promote adoption, while complexity acts as a barrier. The results contribute to theory by showing that stressors have varying effects on adoption, with some discouraging and others encouraging it. In practice, the findings highlight the need to address complexity through training and user friendly ICT design, along with balanced policies to prevent overload and invasion of privacy.