This paper aims to examine the factors influencing the behavioural intentions of academics to adopt the relational-capital-driven Metaverse (RC-d-M) technology within public and private universities. Using an adapted and expanded version of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology III (UTAUT3) model, this paper proposed a novel conceptual model and tested it within higher education institutions (HEIs).
The research uses a quantitative approach, gathering 568 responses from academics in public and private universities. Partial least squares-structural equation modelling is used to analyse the data, rigorously examining the reliability and validity of research instruments. The investigation involves an extensive evaluation of various factors influencing academics’ intentions to adopt the RC-d-M technology, using a cross-sectional design.
The paper reveals significant positive impact of factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, price value and habit and personal innovativeness in information technology on academics’ behavioural intention to adopt the RC-d-M technology in HEIs, along with a negative impact of misjudgement of risk (MR) and poor planning (PP).
The findings of this study hold practical implications for academics, HEIs and policymakers. The adoption of the RC-d-M technology can enhance collaboration and scientific research among academics globally through virtual classrooms, conferences and collaborative projects, contributing to building a global community that transcends geographical boundaries. The RC-d-M technology supports the continuous professional development of academics in various fields such as medicine, engineering and the arts by facilitating access to virtual conferences, workshops and training courses, helping them stay updated with the latest developments and best practices. This makes education and scientific research more dynamic and interactive to keep pace with increasing challenges.
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is a pioneer empirical study that focuses on the reinforcement of relational capital using theories of technology-enhanced education, especially use metaverse in the context of Iraq higher education. In addition, it is the first study introducing the negative impact of MR and PP within UTAUT3 constructs.
