The reduction of computer anxiety: its relation to relaxation training, previous computer training, achievement and need for cognition
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Abstract
This study examined computer anxiety and its relationship to four areas: computer literacy training, relaxation exercises, achievement and the personality variable "need for cognition." Subjects were college students in a semester long computer literacy course that was part of a teacher preparation program. Computer anxiety was measured using the Computer Anxiety Index (CAIN). The CAIN was taken by students at three times in the semester, at the beginning of the course, after six weeks, and at the end of the course. Need for cognition was measured using the Need for Cognition Scale and it was taken by students during the second week of the class. Achievement was assessed using grades assigned in the class;From the data gathered in this study, there was evidence found that supported the position that computer literacy training was an effective means for reducing computer anxiety, however, computer anxiety was not reduced during the first six weeks of the semester long computer literacy course. A significant, but weak relationship between the personality variable "need for cognition," and reduction of computer anxiety was also discovered. Last, this study found that the relationship between computer anxiety and achievement in a computer literacy course was more strongly related to postcourse computer anxiety than it was to precourse computer anxiety.