Factors Influencing Perceptions of Learning Management System Effectiveness in Ghanaian Universities: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This research systematically evaluates empirical studies about the determinants affecting 
perceptions of learning management system (LMS) efficiency among Ghanaian university 
students and teachers. The paper analyses LMS perspectives among students and teachers, 
addressing at least one of the following aspects, such as usability, institutional support, socio
cultural influence, or human factors.  The research integrates literature regarding human, 
technological, socio-cultural, and institutional factors influencing LMS uptake and perceived 
utility, predominantly contextualised within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the 
Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The review encompassed 
empirical peer-reviewed research published from 2012 to 2024, mostly concentrating on Ghanaian 
higher education and similar developing countries. A total of 121 usable papers were retrieved, 
out of which 47 were relevant. The reviewed studies employed qualitative, quantitative, or hybrid 
methodologies. Exclusion criteria were based on non-empirical research, grey literature, 
conference abstracts without full text, and studies that did not explicitly examine views of LMS 
effectiveness. The review synthesises thematic and comparative studies to elucidate similarities 
and differences among user groups, methodological advantages and disadvantages, and practical 
ramifications for policy and pedagogy. The results show that perceived ease of use, self-efficacy, 
and technical support are important for adoption, but socio-cultural hurdles and problems with 
infrastructure remain insufficiently theorised and inconsistently measured across studies, 
representing a significant gap in literature. These findings carry significant implications for 
institutional policymakers, LMS administrators, and academic developers seeking to design 
contextually responsive and equitable digital learning environments in Ghanaian higher education. 
Keywords: Learning Management Systems (LMSs), faculty and students’ perception, higher 
education, Technology Acceptance Model, Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology   
Date of submission: 16, August 2025 
Date of publication: 29th July 2026 
url: https://mjdesjournal.com/index.php/mjdes/issue/view/4 
*Corresponding Author: 
Citation: Attiogbe, E.J.K (2026). Factors Influencing Perceptions of Learning Management System 
Effectiveness in Ghanaian Universities: A Systematic Review. Multidisciplinary Journal of Distance 
Education Studies, 2026, 4(SI), 116-134.