Adoption and utilisation of workplace e-learning practices in selected Namibian public sector organisations

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Date
2025
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
Recent times are witnessing a substantial increase in the adoption and utilisation of e learning for education. Furthermore, there is a growing trend of this tool effectively used to facilitate learning and growth inside public sector organisations globally. In this particular study the main aim was to explore the acceptance and use of e-learning practices in a selection of organisations in the public sector of Namibia. The aforementioned objective was achieved by the acquisition of a comprehensive understanding of the contextual setting in which the research was conducted, as well as a thorough analysis of factors that facilitate e-learning. The study adopted an explanatory sequential mixed method approach comprising of quantitative research (questionnaires) and qualitative research (interviews). The literature review revealed gaps, theories and provided guidance on the formulation of the hypotheses and the development of the instruments. Subsequent to the administration of the questionnaires the follow up interviews were conducted. The framework of the study was based on the model; Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The model is aimed at elucidating adoption and utilisation of e-learning practices, specifically focusing on their implementation. The sample size of 162 individuals, consisting of managers and employees, was carefully chosen to ensure representation across various public sector specialties and professional ranks. Overall, the findings of the study suggest that individuals employed in the public sector had positive view on e-learning use. The limited availability of resources directly contributed to diminished levels of motivation, resulting in unfavourable view towards the practice. It was found further that the literature review, questionnaires and interviews converged since there were not much difference obtained; the methods were rather complementary to one another. The results indicated that e-learning use in Namibia necessitates a comprehensive and structured model. This study therefore recommends a model that requires the meticulous development of factors to foster a culture of e-learning use. It further recommends the development and implementation of curricula as necessary for adoption and utilisation. The aforementioned recommendations demand the incorporation of organisational factors within a wider framework, encompassing guidelines and initiatives formulated by public sector entities for the collective advantage of the Namibian public sector in its entirety. The primary recommendation derived from this study is the conversion of Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) into the Namibia Public Service College, aiming to fulfil the public sector's overall educational needs. Based on an extensive investigation into the public sector organisations in Namibia and a thorough study of relevant literature, a proposed model has been established. The model referred to as the Adoption and Utilisation of Workplace e-learning in the Public Sector Organisations (AUWEPSO) is being proposed. The model exhibits the capacity to serve as a framework for the effective adoption and utilisation of workplace e learning practices in organisations within the Namibian public sector and other institutions with similar contextual characteristics
Description
A dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Adult Education)
Keywords
Adoption and utilisation, E-learning, Public sector organisations, Namibia, University of Namibia, Education
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