Internet Use Habits of Students of the Department of Information Management, Hacettepe University, Ankara

Acceptance and use of information technology: context of Portuguese universities

Purpose

Based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), this study aims to determine the influence of personality traits on the acceptance and usage of Web portals in Portuguese universities.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, a quantitative study was conducted using structural equation modelling and a structured questionnaire, directed to teaching and non-teaching staff in Portuguese universities.

Findings

The results obtained from 338 valid responses indicate a positive influence between personality traits and the use of Web portals.

Practical implications

The study emphasizes the importance of usefulness and ease of use of Portuguese universities’ Web portals. It contributes to developing the literature about the process of information technology (IT) acceptance and use and users’ personality traits.

Originality/value

This study is innovative by contributing to the theory of personality traits and TAM in the context of Portuguese universities. The results reinforce the literature on TAM and the big five model, and on IT and Web portals in particular, which has been little explored in the academic context.

"Internet Addiction": a Conceptual Minefield

With Internet connectivity and technological advancement increasing dramatically in recent years, “Internet addiction” (IA) is emerging as a global concern. However, the use of the term ‘addiction’ has been considered controversial, with debate surfacing as to whether IA merits classification as a psychiatric disorder as its own entity, or whether IA occurs in relation to specific online activities through manifestation of other underlying disorders. Additionally, the changing landscape of Internet mobility and the contextual variations Internet access can hold has further implications towards its conceptualisation and measurement. Without official recognition and agreement on the concept of IA, this can lead to difficulties in efficacy of diagnosis and treatment. This paper therefore provides a critical commentary on the numerous issues of the concept of “Internet addiction”, with implications for the efficacy of its measurement and diagnosticity.