Technology Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence Tools Among Sport Sciences Students and Faculty Members: An Application of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)

Farahmand, Siavash; Barati, Ataalah; Dehghan Ghahfarokhi, Amin; Rajabi, Reza

doi:10.22059/sshr.2026.403524.1212

Technology Acceptance of Artificial Intelligence Tools Among Sport Sciences Students and Faculty Members: An Application of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

siavash farahmand ¹

ataalah barati ²

amin dehghan ghahfarokhi ¹

reza rajabi ²

¹ Sport Management Department, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

² Department Sport Injuries and Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran

10.22059/sshr.2026.403524.1212

Abstract

introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools among students and faculty members, addressing the research gap and identifying barriers to adoption. It also sought to provide practical solutions for managers and authorities to overcome these challenges.

Methods: This research was applied in purpose and descriptive-survey in method. The statistical population consisted of students and faculty members of the Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health at the University of Tehran. Data were collected through a questionnaire, and relationships among variables were analyzed using structural equation modeling with SmartPLS 3.

Results: Most participants considered the quality and quantity of training courses, the culture of use, and faculty policies unsatisfactory. Modeling results showed that social norms, tool application, and ease of use had a positive and significant relationship with perceived usefulness. Moreover, perceived usefulness and ease of use both demonstrated a positive and significant relationship with intention to use AI tools.

Conclusion: As the use of AI tools grows rapidly, ensuring proper and ethical application is essential. Universities should design programs to train and enhance effective use while emphasizing ethical practices. By doing so, they can benefit from AI’s advantages to promote academic progress and scientific development.

Keywords

artificial intelligence

acceptability

technology acceptance Model