Discussion of user satisfaction with computers focuses on a study that tested the construct validity and reliability of the End User Computing Satisfaction Instrument. Highlights include the relationship of user satisfaction and computer attitudes, computer anxiety, computer skill, and computer usage; and implications for the management of…

Identifies three basic types of students of technical writing who fear writing with a computer. Offers suggestions to encourage them (and all technical writing students) to at least become more comfortable and current with writing technology. (SR)

A model of the intrapersonal processes impacting computer-related performance was tested using data from 75 manufacturing employees in a computer training course. Gender, computer experience, and attributional style were predictive of computer attitudes, which were in turn related to computer efficacy, task-specific performance expectations, and…

After training, 29 older and 30 younger adults conducted Web searches to answer two questions. Older adults were somewhat less efficient on the first and slightly less likely to find the right answer to the second. Few age differences in computer attitudes were found. (SK)

A revalidation of a previously developed computer anxiety scale indicated changes in the factor structure for younger and older adults. Two factors emerged--"Direct Involvement" and "Indirect Involvement" with computers--as compared with the previous "General Computer Anxiety" and "Equipment Anxiety" factors, suggesting that the construct of…

Study investigates the responses of college students with and without learning disabilities as to their computer use. Results did not support the proposition that students with learning disabilities may have an aversion toward computers, and furthermore reveal no indications that the students lacked self-efficacy in the use of computers. (Contains…

Presents two experiments to address the questions of if and how normative social influence operates in anonymous computer-mediated communication and human-computer interaction. Finds that the perception of interaction partner (human vs. computer) moderated the group conformity effect such that the undergraduate student subjects expressed greater…

Uses discourses on "computer-phobia" and "computer addiction" to describe the cultural work involved and marketing strategies used between 1960s-1990s regarding management of computer fear. Draws on popular discourses, advertisements, and advice literature to explore how the personal computer was successfully connected to middle-class family…

This study of 296 undergraduate students investigates relationships concerning computer efficacy, attitudes toward computers, and need for learning computer skills. Multiple regression revealed attitudes toward computers, and computer self-efficacy, were significant predictors of the need for learning computing skills between two groups of…

Argues that, by giving it some time and some patience, and by listening to what students have to say, this "techno stuff" (which some teachers resist or fear) may in time become a teacher's best friend. Discusses the many advantages offered by integrating computers into English lessons. (SR)

Gender differences in attitudes toward computers are examined. Subjects were 136 male and 185 female introductory psychology students. The following were assessed: self confidence; anxiety; beliefs about the impact of computers on society; general positive and negative beliefs; and effects of prior experience. (Author/AEF)

Predictive validities of computer aptitude and computer anxiety were studied using nonprogramming computer performance as the criterion variable for 162 young adults. Effects of computer anxiety on performance were negligible, and computer aptitude yielded uncertain results. The measurement instruments' reliability was also reported. (SLD)

Examines the type of innovation-decision (authority-decision versus optional decision) and type of intervention (concern-based versus non-concern-based) on arousing educators' concerns toward the Internet. Results suggest that authority-decision is more effective than optional-decision and concern-based intervention more effective than…

Early childhood educators were assigned to one of three instructional conditions to assess the impact of computer workshops on their level of computer anxiety, knowledge, and comfort with technology. Overall, workshops provided gains that could translate into more effective and efficient computer use in the classroom. (Author)

Considers the impact of superhighways technology in the United Kingdom schools. Explores the effects of new information and communication technologies on traditional boundaries, such as boundaries among curriculum, subjects, pupils, and teachers. Concludes that effects on boundaries are mixed. Includes references. (CMK)