Er generations (Chen Chan, 2011). Prior research revealed that there are generational differences on actual performances while using technology (e.g., Thayer Ray, 2006; Volkom et al., 2013). In terms of the function of technology for older adults, communication with family and loved ones, and access to social support were the most common motivators for computer and Internet use (Thayer Ray, 2006). On the contrary, younger adults were more likely to view technology as a usefulComput Human Behav. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2016 Procyanidin B1 manufacturer September 01.Magsamen-Conrad et al.Pagetool for entertainment, especially for spending time on social networking sites and downloading songs (Volkom et al., 2013). It can be said then that each generation of technology users have their own purpose and expected values from new technologies. Additionally, researchers have identified age related variables among different generations as a major factor in users’ intentions to adopt and use technology. Hence, it is appropriate to conclude that there are prevalent generational differences when it comes to attitudes about technology, ease of use, and actual performance while using technology. Our overarching research question seeks to determine if there are generational differences for UTAUT variables, and more LY317615 web broadly, how age moderates UTAUT. 1.3. Theoretical Framework and Hypothesis Development The rapidly increasing evolution and demands in ICTs because of its attractive nature and efforts to provide nearly endless opportunities, particularly mobile technology, signifies a widespread use of wireless technology such as tablets (Volkom et al., 2013). However, only a limited number of studies have thus far actually focused on each generation’s acceptances and uses of tablets as compared to other digital devices, such as computers or mobile phones. Therefore, the aim of this study is to focus on testing the predictive power of UTAUT on each generation’s intention to use tablet devices. 1.3.1. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)–Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) was designed to unify the multiple existing theories about how users accept technology (Venkatesh Morris, 2000; Venkatesh et al., 2003). UTAUT is created from the following eight notable theories: Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) from Davis et al. (1989); Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) from Davis (1989), Davis et al. (1989), Venkatesh and Davis (2000); Motivation Model (MM) from Davis et al. (1992); Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) from Taylor and Todd (1995); Combined TAM and TPB (C-TAM-TPB) from Taylor and Todd (1995); Model of PC Utilization (MPCU) from Thompson et al. (1991); Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT) from Moore and Benbasat (1991); and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) from Compeau and Higgins (1995) and Compeau et al. (1999). 1.3.2. Moderators and Determinants of Technology Use Intention–Based on a combination of eight theories, UTAUT explains behavioral intention to use or adopt technology by proposing four predictive determinants (Venkatesh et al., 2003): performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. Venkatesh et al. (2003) identified four key moderators believed to affect the relationship between key determinants and intention: gender, age, voluntariness, and experience. We first discuss moderators and determinants broadly, then narrow to discuss determinants individually and present our hypo.Er generations (Chen Chan, 2011). Prior research revealed that there are generational differences on actual performances while using technology (e.g., Thayer Ray, 2006; Volkom et al., 2013). In terms of the function of technology for older adults, communication with family and loved ones, and access to social support were the most common motivators for computer and Internet use (Thayer Ray, 2006). On the contrary, younger adults were more likely to view technology as a usefulComput Human Behav. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2016 September 01.Magsamen-Conrad et al.Pagetool for entertainment, especially for spending time on social networking sites and downloading songs (Volkom et al., 2013). It can be said then that each generation of technology users have their own purpose and expected values from new technologies. Additionally, researchers have identified age related variables among different generations as a major factor in users’ intentions to adopt and use technology. Hence, it is appropriate to conclude that there are prevalent generational differences when it comes to attitudes about technology, ease of use, and actual performance while using technology. Our overarching research question seeks to determine if there are generational differences for UTAUT variables, and more broadly, how age moderates UTAUT. 1.3. Theoretical Framework and Hypothesis Development The rapidly increasing evolution and demands in ICTs because of its attractive nature and efforts to provide nearly endless opportunities, particularly mobile technology, signifies a widespread use of wireless technology such as tablets (Volkom et al., 2013). However, only a limited number of studies have thus far actually focused on each generation’s acceptances and uses of tablets as compared to other digital devices, such as computers or mobile phones. Therefore, the aim of this study is to focus on testing the predictive power of UTAUT on each generation’s intention to use tablet devices. 1.3.1. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)–Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) was designed to unify the multiple existing theories about how users accept technology (Venkatesh Morris, 2000; Venkatesh et al., 2003). UTAUT is created from the following eight notable theories: Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) from Davis et al. (1989); Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) from Davis (1989), Davis et al. (1989), Venkatesh and Davis (2000); Motivation Model (MM) from Davis et al. (1992); Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) from Taylor and Todd (1995); Combined TAM and TPB (C-TAM-TPB) from Taylor and Todd (1995); Model of PC Utilization (MPCU) from Thompson et al. (1991); Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT) from Moore and Benbasat (1991); and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) from Compeau and Higgins (1995) and Compeau et al. (1999). 1.3.2. Moderators and Determinants of Technology Use Intention–Based on a combination of eight theories, UTAUT explains behavioral intention to use or adopt technology by proposing four predictive determinants (Venkatesh et al., 2003): performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. Venkatesh et al. (2003) identified four key moderators believed to affect the relationship between key determinants and intention: gender, age, voluntariness, and experience. We first discuss moderators and determinants broadly, then narrow to discuss determinants individually and present our hypo.