| dc.description.abstract | Recent advances, especially in computer technology, have heralded the development
and implementation of new and innovative teaching strategies. Exposing learners to
computer technology may influence their behavior and hence attitude towards learning.
The purpose of this study was to assess students' attitude towards computer technology
in a history class. Specifically, the study assessed differences in attitude change towards
both computer technologies for students using web-based resources and those using
traditional textbooks, and whether the level of computer literacy was a predictor of
attitude towards computer technology. Thirty eight students from Bridgewater State
College, 70 from Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and 54 from Clemson University
formed the sample for the study selected from already existing classrooms instructed
using web-based learning resources. A pre-test-post-test; non-equivalent control group
design was used. The treatment group was instructed using Web-based electronic
textbook, while the control group was instructed utilizing traditional textbook. A Likert-
type scale was developed to measure the attitude towards computer technology and
attitude towards the history class. ANOVA was used to assess differences in attitude
change. Alpha was set at 0. 05. Results of the study indicate that students from both
groups had good attitude towards computer technology with web based group posting
mean of 3.55 and traditional group 3.47 on a 5 point scale. There was a positive
significant relationship between computer literacy and attitude towards computer
technology significance level of 0.016. The results from this study should help educators
in curriculum planning appreciate the importance of computer literacy skills for fresher's
as well as continuing students. | en_US |
