The Perceived Attributes of Wi-Fi Technology Among University Faculty Members in the United States

The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate and understand the perceived attributes of Wi-Fi technology among university faculty members. Rogers' diffusion theory provides the theoretical framework to guide the qualitative study. Multiple sources of information were used to collect data: in-depth semi-structured interviews, observations, and documentation analysis. Qualitative data analysis techniques were used to analyze data. The participants were 16 faculty members from six colleges at a large Midwestern state university. Findings from this study show that that there are differences between early adopters and non-adopters (the mainstream). They are different in these aspects: knowledge and skill of technology, teaching practices, teaching philosophy, and technology needs. They have different perceptions toward the Wi-Fi technology and they are at different diffusion stages. Therefore, these differences lead to a diffusion "gap" between early adopters and the mainstream. This diffusion gap implies that a different support infrastructure is needed for mainstream faculty to integrate technology for teaching and learning.