Technology Experience of Education: Examining the Acceptance and Adoption of ICTs within Austrian Higher Education

This doctoral thesis examines the acceptance and adoption of information and communication technologies (ICTs) within the context of Austrian Higher Education and observes how the culture and quality of these educational experiences are influenced and shaped through technology enhanced learning scenarios. Furthermore, this thesis examines ways in which ICTs are adopted and diffused amongst students and faculty to enhance the capabilities, educational processes and the learning experience of individuals and groups. Furthermore, this research broadens the usage of Human Computer Interaction (HCI) research methods within the academic field of Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL); and also, within the broader “e-Learning” and “m-Learning” research communities.
Human Computer Interaction research places emphasis on examining the use of
interactive technological systems within the context of use. The context of the
research presented herein focuses on real-world, in-situ technology experiences
of people (students / faculty / administrators) within various higher-education
institutions in Austria. The research conducted for this thesis was completed over
many years and demonstrates the inherent multidisciplinary nature of the HCI
research. The research presents novel methods and applications which are able to improve the educational experience of students and faculty alike.