Factors influencing the acceptance of assistive technology by teacher candidates in the context of inclusive education and special needs students

While assistive technologies are crucial for students with special needs, the number of studies scrutinizing instructors' acceptance of assistive technologies within the scope of inclusive education remains quite limited. Furthermore, there is almost no comprehensive study in the existing body of literature focusing on the acceptance of assistive technology in inclusive education among teacher candidates. The aim of this study is, therefore, to investigate the factors influencing the intention to use assistive technologies among teacher candidates who have undergone training in special and inclusive education, through an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The data of the study were collected online from 311 teacher candidates studying in 6 different programs of a state university. For the analysis, factor analysis, structural equation modeling (partial least squares) and bootstrapping analysis is used. The findings revealed that the constructs with the greatest impact on the intention to use assistive technologies were social influence, enjoyment and innovativeness, respectively. The most robust relationship within the model was identified between self-efficacy and ease of use. The results provide a theoretical foundation regarding the role of both individual and institutional factors influencing teacher candidates' intentions to use assistive technology. Furthermore, a model that can be utilized for the implementation of assistive technologies in inclusive education was validated. Accordingly, theoretical and practical implications are discussed, and recommendations for future studies are highlighted.