Developing an extended UTAUT model for acceptance of the blockchain-based information sharing systems in university education

Purpose The use of blockchain technology, in addition to technical issues, has always been associated with human and environmental challenges and the implementation of blockchain-based systems should be performed by considering various aspects of this technology. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the adoption of blockchain technology in the field of education and universities, by considering environmental issues. Design/methodology/approach The extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model was used as a theoretical model. The research population included students and employees of Iranian universities, as a developing country. Findings The results of the research showed that environmental attitude, performance expectancy, social influence, effort expectancy and facilitating conditions are effective on the adoption and use of blockchain technology in the university. It was found that the environmental impact of blockchain is an effective factor in the adoption and use of this technology. Practical implications The results of this study are used by academic managers and policymakers in the field of education in the studied society to plan effective factors in the use of blockchain. Originality/value The theoretical contribution of this research is the use of the extended UTAUT model, including environmental attitude factors, in the assessment of blockchain adoption.