Factors that influence user perception of ubiquitous monitoring environments: An empirical study in a developing country

摘要

Over the years, conventional monitoring devices such as video cameras and tape-recorders have been redesigned into smarter and smaller forms which can be integrated seamlessly into an environment. The purpose of these ubiquitous monitoring devices is to enable the provision of innovative applications and services that support user wellbeing. Despite improving operations in essential areas such as health, there are still concerns associated with ubiquitous monitoring. For benefits associated with ubiquitous monitoring to be fully realized, there is the need to understand the role of user perceptions. This study investigates the factors that influence user perceptions of ubiquitous monitoring devices by drawing samples from a developing country. Users’ response on seven recurring ubiquitous monitoring perceptions were collected using a survey questionnaire. The relationships among these factors were analysed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling. The results suggest a significant relationship between Perceived Natural Border Crossing and Perceived Privacy Invasion. Also Perceived Affordance, Perceived Coverage and Perceived Privacy Invasion predicted Perceived Trust. The findings imply that more emphasis must be given to educating and familiarizing users with ubiquitous monitoring devices. Future studies are expected to replicate the study in other developing societies to validate these claims.