| dc.description.abstract | Recent advances in the contemporary world, especially in the area of computer technology, have heralded the development and implementation of new and innovative teaching strategies and particularly with the Internet revolution. This study assessed students' attitude towards computer technology. Specifically, the study assessed differences in attitudinal change towards computer technology by students using web-based resources and those using traditional textbooks; and, if level of computer literacy predicted students' attitudes towards computer technology. Participants (N = 127) were students enrolled in Western Civilization classes at Clemson University, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and Bridgewater State College. To assess differences in attitudinal change, a pretest-posttest, non-equivalent control group design was used. ANOVA was used to assess differences in attitudinal change. Alpha level was set at 0.05. Results indicated no significant difference between the groups. All the students from both groups had good attitude towards computer technology, although Students with high computer literacy skills showed better attitude. There was, therefore, a positive significant relationship between computer literacy and attitude towards computer technology. The results of this study should help educators in curriculum planning appreciate the importance of computer literacy skills as soon as first year students report to the university. The faculty, too, should be prepared to use modern technologies in order to build classrooms where students are engaged and motivated. | en_US |
