Construct Validity of an Instrument To Measure Computer Aversion.

Development and determination of the construct validity of a scale designed to assess aversion to computers are described. Based on a social learning model emphasizing efficacy, outcome, and reinforcement, the Computer AVersion Scale (CAVS) was developed for use with mental health clients who were high school age and older, as well as mental health professionals. The original CAVS item pool consisted of 45 true/false items. The CAVS produces four scores: (1) efficacy expectations (one's ability to perform behaviors required to operate a computer); (2) outcome expectations (one's knowledge of the required behaviors); (3) reinforcement expectations (whether outcomes produced by computer use meet one's goals); and (4) a total score, reflecting the cumulative effects of goals. A fourth summary score reflects the cumulative effects of the other three scores. Two groups of subjects were employed to reduce the 45-item CAVS to a 31-item instrument, which was then administered to 270 undergraduates enrolled in a large northeastern university. The Attitudes Toward Computers Scale was also atIministered to 78 subjects who completed the CAVS. The CAVS was also compared with othr instruments designed to measure negative affect, including two instruments for use in diagnosing feelings about computers, as well as an instrument for assessing levels of computer experience. Results, which cover such variables as gender and educational background, indicate that the CAVS is a reliable and valid measure of computer aversion. Seven data tables, a 23-item list of referenceb, and the CAVS are included. (TJH) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************A************************* U.S. DEPARTMENT Of EDUCATION Office of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) (4lis document hes been reprceluced as recived from the person Of OfglIoRidlOn originating it 0 Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction quality Points of view or opinions staled in this docu mant do not necessarily represent Who& OERI pcsition or policy "PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY 5C077 7: /146767? TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)." Construct Validity of an Instrument to Measure Computer Aversion Scott T. Meier Department of Counseling & Educational Psychology SUNY Buffalo Presentation at APA Convention Symposium, "Computers and Personality," August, 1990. Mailing Address: Scott T. Meier, Ph.D. Department of Counseling & Ed. Psycnology 409 Baldy Hall SUNY Buffalo Buffalo, NY 14260 Note: Portions of the following are based on data from Meier (1988) and Meier and Lambert (1990). 1