Hybrid Learning In Ghanaian Higher Education:Implications Of The Diffusion Of Innovation Theory

Technology adoption and integration is crucial in hybrid classrooms,but few studies have explored its determinants in Ghana.This study investigated the factors that led to higher education students’adoption of new innovations for hybrid lessons through the application of the Diffusion of Innovation Theory after the pandemic,when hybrid lessons became a preferred mode of teaching and learning.Two hundred students from the University of Ghana were surveyed through an online questionnaire using a random sampling technique and analyzed through structural equation modeling and SPSS.The Chi-square test of independence was also carried out to compare some findings.Findings show that Ghanaian higher education students view Zoom as the newest innovation introduced for hybrid learning accompanied by Sakai,Google Classroom,and Google Meet.Ghanaian students,in terms of adopters of innovation,are predominately Early Majority,followed closely by Innovators,Early Adopters,Late Majority and a few Laggards.Findings also show that Ghanaian higher education students’intention to adopt hybrid learning is significantly interrelated and impacted by relative advantage,complexity and observability.Compatibility and trialability were highly correlated and did not provide significant feedback.The study adds to the theoretical understanding of the nature of hybrid learning for higher education students’and their intention to adopt hybrid learning,which has become a preferred learning model in recent times.It was recommended that higher education authorities should organize regular training on hybrid innovations to keep both students and staff abreast of updates to the innovations.Technology integration in teaching and learning should be emphasized and started from the learners’foundation of basic school.It was also recommended that the ministry of education collaborates with internet service providers to ensure secure and reliable internet connectivity in all schools across the country.Additionally,continuous technology training should be provided for all teachers to prepare them to teach students in the digital era and get them ready for life in the 21^st century and for future jobs.