Barriers to Diffusion of Web-based Distance Education at China Agricultural University

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive study was to investigate barriers to diffusion of Web-based distance education (WBDE) as perceived by faculty at China Agricultural University (CAU). Random and stratified sampling procedures were used to select participants for the study (N = 300). Data were collected on a printed questionnaire that was hand-delivered. Results showed that respondents tended to perceive WBDE program credibility, administrative support, planning issues, technical expertise, financial concerns, concerns about time, concerns about incentives, infrastructure, conflict with traditional education, and fear of technology as moderate barriers to diffusion of WBDE. Age, level of education, academic rank, teaching experience, and distance education experience had no significant influence on faculty perceptions about the ten barriers to diffusion of WBDE. Professional area and gender had no significant influence on faculty perceptions about nine of the ten barriers. They, however, had significant impacts on faculty perceptions about concerns about time as a barrier.