Usefulness of technology adoption research in introducing an online workbook

Many foreign language faculty identify technologies that they would like to introduce in their classes, but few are aware of the theoretical models that can help them choose and introduce those innovations more effectively. Such models have received limited attention in the computer-assisted language learning (CALL) literature, and have failed to adequately explore the complementarity between global and fine-grained approaches to adoption. To fill these gaps, the present paper introduces a novel integration of three adoption theories (Diffusion of Innovations, Technology Acceptance Model, and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology), providing a more robust explanation of the factors affecting technology adoption than current models offer individually. The integrated theories are applied to guide faculty adoption of a seemingly simple yet ultimately complex CALL technology (an online Spanish workbook) in a multi-section introductory college Spanish program. An analysis of that adoption process serves to illustrate the value of synthesizing global and fine-grained theoretical models to better explain adoption processes in any CALL context, while also identifying areas for development in adoption theories. Finally, this study offers guidelines for planning and implementing innovative technologies as well as directions for future research.