This study investigated the relationship between computer experience and perceived ease of use as mediated by anxiety and enjoyment in using the Blackboard-Ml system reported by a group of student teachers at a tertiary institution in Hong Kong. Earlier studies carried out in different educational and cultural contexts showed that the effect of system experience on ease of use was mediated by playfulness (i.e., enjoyment) and anxiety. The current study found that the effect of computer experience on ease of use was significantly mediated only by anxiety and not enjoyment. However, enjoyment was found to have a significantly stronger direct effect on ease of use than previous studies have indicated, suggesting the unique effects of educational and cultural influences.

Key words: blackboard, e-learning, information systems, technology acceptance model, web-based teaching and learning