Theoretical Perspectives on Digital Literacy Adoption and Remote Work Readiness: An Integrated Review Using TAM, TPB, Digital Divide and Socio-Technical Systems Theory (Published)
The rapid digitalisation of work has elevated digital literacy to a critical competency for labour market participation, yet significant disparities persist in understanding the factors that influence digital literacy adoption, particularly in developing country contexts. This integrated theoretical review examines four prominent frameworks the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), Digital Divide Theory, and Socio-Technical Systems Theory (STST) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping digital literacy adoption and remote work readiness. Through systematic analysis of the theoretical foundations, empirical applications, and complementary insights of these frameworks, this review develops an integrated conceptual model that synthesises individual, social, technical, and structural factors influencing technology adoption. The findings reveal that while each theory offers valuable insights, an integrated approach that combines individual perceptions (TAM), behavioural determinants (TPB), inequality dimensions (Digital Divide), and system alignment (STST) provides the most comprehensive lens for understanding digital literacy adoption. The review identifies key propositions for future research and offers recommendations for designing effective interventions that address the multifaceted nature of digital literacy development. This integrated framework contributes to the literature by providing a theoretically grounded foundation for research and practice in digital literacy and remote work readiness, with particular relevance for resource-constrained educational contexts, and advances multiple Sustainable Development Goals including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Keywords: Digital Divide, Digital Literacy, Socio-Technical Systems Theory, Sustainable Development Goals, Technology Acceptance Model, Theory of Planned Behaviour, integrated framework, remote work readiness, theoretical review