Understanding mature students' intention to use mobile learning in higher education: integrating personality traits and UTAUT

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to provide new insights into the relationship between individual characteristics, particularly personality traits and mature students' intention to use (ITU) mobile learning (m-learning).

Design/methodology/approach

The research model was constructed by integrating the Big Five personality traits into the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. The data were collected from mature students at a university research center in Macau. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data and test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal that personality traits play a significant role in determining mature students' ITU m-learning technology. In particular, social influence (SI) mediates the relationship between agreeableness (AGB) and ITU.

Originality/value

This study examines how personality traits collectively influence mature students' receptiveness and intentions toward m-learning. As mature learners' motivations and preferences remain underexplored, insights into trait-technology links could address current gaps and optimize mobile educational support tailored to their distinct characteristics and needs.