Determinants of Use and Integration of New Technologies in Military Education and Training Institutions in Cambodia

Abstract : Modernizing education and training within the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) is critical to strengthening national defense capability and operational readiness amid evolving regional and global security participation. This study examines the key factors influencing modernization initiatives in RCAF training and educational institutions. It adopts the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, integrating constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Theory of Reasoned Action, and Technology Acceptance Model. To enhance explanatory power, Self-Efficacy and Anxiety were incorporated into the UTAUT model. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 509 instructors, senior officers, and students across two Cambodian military universities. The findings indicate that Behavioral intention to use new technologies was found to be highly influenced by performance expectancy, self-efficacy, facilitating conditions, anxiety, and social influence, but not by effort expectancy. In turn, actual use of modern education and training technologies was highly influenced by behavioral intention. However, challenges such as limited resources, resistance to organizational change, and insufficient capacity- building efforts hinder progress. This study offers practical policy implications for defense leaders and emphasizes the importance of sustained institutional reform. It also underscores the need for further research to address existing gaps and support the long-term transformation of military education and training in Cambodia.