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)

The instructional program presented in this paper was implemented to improve the computer literacy and reduce computer anxiety of the teachers at a junior high school that serves 8th and 9th graders in the southeastern United States. The target group was 65 teachers at the site. The program consisted of 6 hours of instruction and hands-on…

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)

This paper presents a case study of an "e-pal" experiment which suggests that negative assumptions and orientations toward computer technology for communication purposes can be altered through one-to-one peer relationships. The experiment was conducted through a communication seminar at a small private university in the Northwest.…

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…

The student who has an understanding of computers and other modern technologies is becoming important in college and in the workplace. Two California State Universities now require a personal computer for incoming freshmen. Vice President Albert Gore has urged all Americans to get on the information superhighway. Parents can assist their child and…