Contemporary Attitudes Toward Computers

Abstract

This paper examines contemporary attitudes toward computers in two samples: university students and nonstudent adults. Changes in attitudes from the beginning of the computer revolution until the present are evaluated by comparing the current attitudes of both samples to those found in a classic attitude study of 25 years ago. The results of our study show that there are substantial differences in attitudes held by students and nonstudent adults with respect to computers and their current and future place in society. It also indicates that attitudes have shifted over the past two decades with more negative feelings being prevalent among the nonstudent adults, or the older persons. This study indicates a need to expand the focus of computer education from programming, mechanics of the machines, and usage skills to include limitations and consideration of the computer’s place and role in society.

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