Understanding user intention in metaverse education: a synthesis of diffusion of innovation and UTAUT2

The burgeoning advancement of digital technologies, especially the emergence of the metaverse, holds significant potential to transform education. Despite this promise, little research has explored user perspectives in this context. This study addresses this gap by proposing a novel research model that integrates the Diffusion of Innovation theory with the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology to evaluate users' attitudes and intentions toward adopting metaverse education platforms. Structural equation modelling was applied to a sample of 892 participants, identifying key factors influencing the adoption of these platforms. The results show that attitudes and perceived usefulness are primary determinants of adoption, with trialability and hedonic motivation exerting positive effects, while complexity and compatibility have negative effects. Interestingly, observability and social influence were found to have negligible effects on attitudes. These findings provide both practical and theoretical insights into the factors driving the adoption of metaverse platforms in education.