Effects of psychology courseware use on computer anxiety in students

摘要

Recent use of computer-based learning programs (courseware) in psychology courses has led to concern over the potential for computer anxiety to impact students' performance and increase anxiety. Therefore, the relationship between computer anxiety and psychology courseware use was examined in an undergraduate Abnormal Psychology class using four computerized case simulations as part of their course work. Comparison of pre-versus posttest measures of computer anxiety indicated that computer anxiety did not interfere with simulation completion. Computer anxiety actually decreased concomitant to courseware use. Implications of the results are discussed with respect to using psychology courseware.