Unpacking the adoption and use of mobile education apps: A UTAUT2 perspective from a developing country

Amid the digital revolution, it is crucial to comprehend the elements that impact the acceptance of mobile education applications, especially in developing countries such as Vietnam. This study examined the perspectives of high school and university students regarding the utilization of these applications, using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2) model as a conceptual framework. A quantitative research methodology was employed to survey 854 students in Vietnam. The results indicate that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, hedonic motivation, price value, and habits substantially impact students' inclination to use mobile education apps. However, facilitating conditions did not have the expected positive effect on behavioral intention. This study enhances the existing body of knowledge by presenting empirical proof of the suitability of the UTAUT2 model in the specific setting of mobile education applications in developing countries. This study is constrained by its geographical coverage, sample makeup, cross-sectional design, dependence on self-reported data, and restricted variables. Subsequent investigations should aim to address these limitations.