Computer anxiety stems from several factors: psychological (locus of control, fear), sociological (isolation, dehumanization, stereotypes), and operational (negative experiences). Trainers should confront expectations and preconceptions, focus content toward the learner, and tailor the learning environment. (SK)

Responses from 84% of 245 vocational-technical teachers in Dade County, Florida, revealed that 25% experienced computer anxiety. The relationship between anxiety and teaching area or demographic variables was not significant. Computer-related experience had a significant influence on anxiety. (SK)

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator and a computer anxiety scale were completed by 135 students in a computer literacy course. No significant relationship was found between personality type and computer anxiety. However, knowledge of personality types can help in shaping computer teaching. (SK)

Pre-/posttest results from 28 older adults who completed a computer course revealed highly positive changes in computer attitudes. Computer interaction diaries showed enthusiasm and eagerness for future computer training. Age-related learning needs (longer training time, self-pacing, pair training) were identified. (SK)

Discussion of computerism (i.e., blind faith in the inherent good of computers) focuses on seven myths about computer anxiety, including the relationship between computer use and math skills; fear of breaking computers; the need for keyboarding skills; and gender differences. An annotated bibliography of 21 sources of further information is…

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)

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…

Identifies six stages adult learners pass through as they become confident using electronic mail. Understanding the stages of learning to use technology empowers the learner through the knowledge that feelings of tension and frustration will be overcome. (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)

Reports on a study conducted to evaluate how individual differences in anxiety levels affect performance on computer versus paper-and-pencil forms of verbal sections of the Graduate Record Examination. Contrary to the research hypothesis, analysis of scores revealed that extroverted and less computer anxious subjects scored significantly lower on…

Suggests these teaching strategies for reducing computer anxiety of adult learners and enhancing the opportunity for learning: use humor whenever possible; demystify the computer; determine students' fears; begin with the basics; avoid computer jargon; measure instructional pace; avoid stimulus overload and instructions that sound like warnings;…

Examines the degree to which computer and test anxiety have a predictive role in performance across three computer-administered placement tests. Subjects (72 undergraduate students) were measured with the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale, the Test Anxiety Inventory, and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Results suggest that much of what is considered…

Developed a multidimensional measure of affect and cognition in relation to adult learning of computing skills, the Computer Anxiety and Learning Measure (CALM). Results from 794 Australian undergraduates support the validity and reliability of the CALM with this population, although whether the measure is invariant across different adult…

Based on a college-level geometry course, presents practical suggestions for integrating exploratory computer applications into the mathematics classroom. Reveals that students need more experimental time with technology to reduce anxiety, and assessments need to be developed and implemented to tap the outcomes of problem solving and higher level…

Explores the relationship between attitudes toward computers and computer use, as well as the most effective types of training for faculty. Increasing faculty competence will encourage computer use in the classroom. Ideally, training should be designed for each individual's level of anxiety, liking, and confidence when using computers. Encouraging…