Factors Influencing the Acceptance of Soil Test Kit Technology

Abstract

The cost of fertilizer is considered a major expenditure in the agriculture sector. Thai farmers have been encountering three major problems related to limited choices of fertilizers that fit with arable land, counterfeits and expensive products. Existing researhes aim to improve farming productivity by providing a site-specific nutrient management (SSNM), the so-called “tailor-made fertilizer.” In order to properly use the fertilizer, a soil test kit was developed and disseminated. However, the public adoption rate of such a kit is still very limited. Based on this circumstance, this study aimed to analyze the factors affecting farmers’ acceptance of the soil test kit by using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study employed quantitative research methodology, using questionnaire surveys with 100 Thai farmers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The results revealed that compatibility and training had an impact on the perceived usefulness of the kit. On the other hand, compatibility, trust and training had an impact on the perceived ease of use of the kit. Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and attitude toward the use of the kit had an impact on usage intention of the kit, whereas social influence exhibited no effect on both the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the kit.