Intent to Use a Smartphone App as a University-Engagement Tool by Kabarole Farmers in Uganda

Abstract

Smartphone apps are promising tools for engagement between universities and external stakeholders like dairy farmers. However, there is limited evidence of dairy farmers’ intent to use apps. We use the Technology Acceptance Model to assess dairy farmers’ intent to use a co-created application. A survey of 100 farmers in the Kabarole district-Uganda was conducted, which focused on variables predicting farmers’ intention to use the app. Data were analysed using SPSS and Smart PLS 3 software. Findings show that hedonistic and utilitarian benefits drive farmers’ perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of the app. Also, the intent to use the app is driven by both types of attitudes. Furthermore, self-belief affects the perceived usefulness but was insignificant on intent to use the app. The findings contribute to practical knowledge of the factors predicting the intent to use digital tools. Future research should focus on the actual usage of the app.