Computer phobia and computer self-efficacy: their association with undergraduates' use of university computer facilities

  • Authors:

  • David Mcilroy;Carol Sadler;Nadine Boojawon

  • Affiliations:

  • School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Henry Cotton Campus, 15-21 Webster Street, Liverpool L3 2ET, England, UK;School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Henry Cotton Campus, 15-21 Webster Street, Liverpool L3 2ET, England, UK;School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Henry Cotton Campus, 15-21 Webster Street, Liverpool L3 2ET, England, UK

  • Venue:
  • Computers in Human Behavior
  • Year:
  • 2007

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Abstract

Extensive development in universities' provision of computer facilities may have negative consequences for students prone to computer avoidance. In the present study, undergraduates (N=363) completed self-report measures on computer phobia and self-efficacy. Results demonstrate that many students follow previous trends by continuing to report levels of computer phobia within the higher parameters of self-report measures. Students who reported either high computer phobia or low computer self-efficacy were less likely to maximise their use of university computer facilities. Moreover, a range of background measures - initial computer experience, regular home use, successful completion of a computer course and introductory tutor's characteristics - all impacted statistically on self-report responses. Results are discussed with reference to the increasing responsibility placed on students to acquire ICT skills.