Diffusion and Social Impacts of Personal Computers

The present meta-research of past-studies on personal computers in American households examines (1) factors related to the adoption of computing, (2) how personal computers are used in households, and (3) the social implications that extend from these patterns of adoption and use of computing in the household. Our meta-research of eleven surveys of the diffusion of home computers shows that formal education is a strong factor in explaining the adoption and use of home computers. Instrumental uses of home computers are increasing more rapidly than are entertainment uses. Changes in leisure-time activities, such as decreased television viewing, are found in adopting households. Such longer-range negative impacts of home computing as gender gaps and socioeconomic inequality are noted as topics for future research.

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