Acceptance Factors of Appropriate Technology: Case of Water Purification Systems in Binh Dinh, Vietnam

Junmin Lee, Keungoui Kim, Hyunha Shin and Junseok Hwang
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Junmin Lee: Technology Management, Economics and Policy Program, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
Keungoui Kim: Technology Management, Economics and Policy Program, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
Hyunha Shin: Technology Management, Economics and Policy Program, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
Junseok Hwang: Technology Management, Economics and Policy Program, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea

Sustainability, 2018, vol. 10, issue 7, 1-20

Abstract: This study selects a case involving water purification systems in Binh Dinh, Vietnam, as an appropriate example to examine appropriate technology (AT) acceptance factors and derive possible insights into the stable settlement and development processes whereby to diffuse AT. This analysis administered questionnaires to users of water purification systems installed in five elementary and middle schools in Binh Dinh, from which 296 samples were collected for the final analysis. The original unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) was modified by incorporating the factors of physical support and educational support, and empirically studied using structural equation modeling. The findings revealed that all constructs significantly affect the behavioral intentions toward AT, of which performance expectancy and physical support have the most significant impact. Thus, understanding local needs and improving the quality of life by spreading AT are key in its acceptance and diffusion. Furthermore, sustainable technology is guaranteed only if human and economic support is accompanied by AT development that fits the local context and environment. Finally, the analysis results, that moderating effects differ by role, imply that educational support’s influence varies between manager and student groups.

Keywords: appropriate technology; water purification systems; technology acceptance; empirical study; UTAUT model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2018
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (7)

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