Investigating Employee Benefits and Barriers to the Adoption of Emerging Technologies in a Historically Disadvantaged Higher Education Institution
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijarbm.464Keywords:
High-Performance Computing, Higher Education, Technology Adoption, Barriers, Benefits, Historically Disadvantaged InstitutionsAbstract
The adoption of emerging technologies has become increasingly vital in higher education, especially in the context of Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs), where resource constraints and systemic challenges persist. This study investigates the benefits and barriers experienced by employees in adopting emerging technologies, with a specific focus on High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 12 staff members from a department actively engaged with HPC at an HDI. The data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and insights related to both the adoption and sustained use of such technologies. Key enabling factors identified include a background in computer language proficiency and a commitment to continuous learning. The perceived benefits of adopting HPC systems include enhanced problem-solving capabilities, cost-efficiency, increased innovation, and expanded job opportunities. Conversely, significant barriers to adoption emerged, such as unreliable electricity supply (load shedding), inadequate data security, limited access to necessary resources, and minimal exposure to advanced technologies. The study concludes with a recommendation for future research to incorporate computational knowledge and practical solutions to address institutional and infrastructural challenges affecting technology adoption in historically marginalized academic settings.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Lethabo Ledwaba, Tlou Sam Setati, Harriet R. Maluka (Author)
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