Hello, Adetoun.

Coming from the field of behavior analysis, and combining that with what I have seen during the last 10 years using e-learning platforms and training faculty and staff in their use, I would like to give you some ideas:

> Don't push or require mandatory use of the technologies. Instead, try to engage them in a way that is not threatening. For example, ask them what things they would like to accomplish faster or easier.

> Try to identify a trusted peer who would be more willing to use technology, and tell this person to motivate his or her colleagues.

> Bring a presenter that could act as a role-model for the group. This person may be someone from their own field, someone who they can trust and who will identify with them. Have this person illustrate how technology can be of help in their work.

> Show them how using technology is not something that you or the institution are making up, but rather something that people (users, clients) are demanding. You can use a survey, interviews, newspaper articles, and other sources.

VERY IMPORTANT: shaping of a new behavior has to be done in small steps. Always ensure that each step is attainable. Start with something that is very easy, introduce the computer to do other things other than work, such as enternainment or something related to their particular interests. Use computers to communicate among them; watch out for situations (competition, for instance) that can be perceived as a threat. Let them have fun!

I hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Edgar Salgado

I am a very slow learner in using computer. I need an empathetic, patient and helpful computer trainer who can go through with me step by step to make me really understand what I am doing.

So far, I have not found one yet. I have only met trainers who always make feel stupid and frighten to move any button and any move that I might lost my data...:(

The answer to me is that we need a lot of understanding, inspiring, kind and helpful computer trainers to introduce new computing technologies for doing the library work.

I hope this helps.

Thank you, sirs. Your suggestions are much appreciated.

Hello Adetoun

Changing one's behaviour is not an easy task. It is a challenge and you need to analyse the existing situation and understand the constrains.

I have done some references on technology acceptance models when I was introducing e-learning to my faculty. There are various models which were developed by researches. But the most commonly used method is Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) developed by Davis. According to his theory the users attitude towards the new technology is mainly influenced by the following 2 factors.

1) Perceived usefulness - using this specific application system will increase the job performance

2) Perceived ease of use - target system/techniques to be free of effort and efficient than the existing system

If you can inculcate above two factors to their mind their attitude will change and they will motivate to learn and use. You can not be success without their cooperation.

Adetoun Oyelude, there is very little you can do for those who resist new technology, some will come along and others will continue to resist and think it will disappear with time. The fact is technology is here to stay and those who resist will be left behind. I have come across those in my more than twenty years working in research and academic libraries.

I'll note this, Devang Pandya, your last statement is particularly encouraging- not minding the struggle, but removing the obstacles for others. The TAM model is also helpful, Iroshini.