Factors that influence the utilisation of high performance computing systems at selected higher education institution

Abstract

High levels of organisational performance may be achieved through the effective use of technology. By supplying High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems to previously underserved universities, the South African government sought to promote science and innovation while addressing Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 (SDG 4), which aims to improve the quality of education. This was done to improve research capacity and correct resource disparities in institutions. However, not all universities offer access to and ensure the effective use of these systems. As a result, the study aimed to investigate the factors that affect how the University of Venda's (UNIVEN) HPC system is accessed and used. The study used a mixed research approach. Descriptive research design was used to explore and understand the phenomenon., A non-probability sampling method based on a purposive sampling method was used to select 10 participants who provided qualitative data. On the other hand, a random stratified sampling was utilised to identify the 218 participants who provided quantitative data. The research study comprised three groups, namely masters students, PhD students and academics. Simple random sampling was then used within each group to select the participants. The total sample size was 228. Data were gathered by the researcher using self-administered questionnaires and in-person structured interviews. The ATLAS.ti program, which manages thematic content, was used to analyse the qualitative data that had been collected. To handle the themes, the researcher followed four steps: reading the material for the first time, recognising potential topics, classifying codes into themes, and producing a table of themes that summarizes all the themes. The Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.0 was used to analyse quantitative data. The study highlights the importance of organisational support, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness in the actual use of High-Performance Computing system at the University of Venda. Therefore, the study's outcomes indicate that the support provided by an organisation and the users' perception are crucial elements for the successful implementation and use of technological systems.