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Using the Technology Acceptance Model to Explore Adolescents' Perspectives on Combining Technologies for Physical
Mark Drehlich1, Michael Naraine2, Katie Rowe2
1Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.
Journal of Medical Internet Research
|March 7, 2020
Summary
Adolescents found wearable activity trackers and social media useful for physical activity but noted challenges with ease of use and risks. Technology acceptance depends on balancing perceived usefulness against usability and compatibility concerns.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Digital Health Interventions
- Technology Acceptance
Background:
- Wearable activity trackers and social media show potential for increasing adolescent physical activity.
- Limited understanding exists regarding adolescents' perceptions of the ease of use and usefulness of these technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore adolescents' acceptance of wearable activity trackers combined with social media in a physical activity intervention.
- Utilized the technology acceptance model to assess user perceptions.
Main Methods:
- A 12-week physical activity intervention (Raising Awareness of Physical Activity study) combined Fitbit Flex with Facebook.
- 124 adolescents (13-14 years) participated in post-intervention focus groups.
- Analysis employed pen profiles and a coding framework based on the technology acceptance model.
Main Results:
- Adolescents perceived Fitbit Flex as motivating but difficult to use, impacting ease of use.
- Facebook was useful for content delivery, though adolescents preferred other social media platforms.
- Perceived risks included device damage/loss, data integrity, and compatibility issues with daily life.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents recognized the usefulness of wearable activity trackers and social media for physical activity.
- Effort, risks, and compatibility challenges may hinder engagement and technology acceptance.
- Future research should examine evolving technology acceptance factors using the technology acceptance model.
