Factors that Influence Student Attitude Toward Computer Usage

Computers are a key component of the educational curriculum worldwide, so student attitudes toward computer usage is of critical importance. Recent studies have identified a number of factors influencing these attitudes. Interestingly, these studies come from outside of North America from such diverse countries as Nigeria, Slovakia and Taiwan and Malaysia.
  1. Computer Skills

    • One factor influencing student attitude toward computer usage is their perceived level of skill with computers. For example, students with better basic Internet skills have more favorable attitudes toward the use of the Internet than those with lesser skills. Conversely, computer anxiety, or a concern about computer skills, adversely impacts student attitudes.

    Environment

    • Learning environments that promote the use of computers, have a positive impact on student attitudes toward computer usage. For example, students have a more positive attitude toward using the Internet for learning in an environment that encourages the use of the Internet. Other studies suggest the home environment has more of an impact than the learning environment. For example, students from homes with accessible computers and computer-savvy, or at least supportive, parents have more positive attitudes.

    Learning Motivation

    • Students who are interested in computers have more positive attitudes toward their usage. From a teaching perspective, fostering positivity means capitalizing on this interest. Educators should kindle student interest by utilizing the things students like to do with computers, like network games and online chatting.

    Field of Study

    • There is some evidence to suggest student attitudes toward computer usage are influenced by the student's chosen field of study. A study reported in the International Journal of Computing and ICT Research identified students in vocational programs as having more positive attitudes than commercial students.

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