Predicting individual differences in performance on computer-administered tests and tasks: Development of the computer aversion scale

Abstract This article describes the development of a theoretically-based instrument to measure aversive reactions to computers. Previous efforts to assess computer averse states are reviewed, and it is argued that a self-report instrument could be useful in detecting negative reactions to computers. The Computer Aversion Scale (CAVS) is based on three expectancy categories (efficacy, outcome, and reinforcement expectations) derived from social learning theory. Data analyses demonstrated moderate to high reliability and validity estimates for CAVS total score and three expectancy subscales. In addition, a study using a modified CAVS was shown to predict poor performance on a computer-based test of cognitive abilities and to moderate a relationship between mood and memory measures. Implications of CAVS findings for psychological assessment via computer are discussed.

[1]  Douglas N. Jackson,et al.  A Sequential System for Personality Scale Development1 , 1970 .

[2]  P. Dempsey.  A UNIDIMENSIONAL DEPRESSION SCALE FOR THE MMPI. , 1964, Journal of consulting psychology.

[3]  D. Kahneman,et al.  Attention and Effort , 1973 .

[4]  Charles D. Spielberger,et al.  Current topics in clinical and community psychology , 1969 .

[5]  M. Wagman.  A factor analytic study of the psychological implications of the computer for the individual and society , 1983 .

[6]  Self-reference as a learning strategy and a learning style. , 1984 .

[7]  James L. Hedland.  Mental health computing: directions for research , 1987 .

[8]  Ruth Elkins.  Attitudes of Special Education Personnel toward Computers. , 1985 .

[9]  Terry B. Gutkin,et al.  The behavioral sciences in the computer age , 1985 .

[10]  T. Osberg,et al.  The Relative Accuracy of Self-Predictions and Judgments by Others in Psychological Assessment , 1981 .

[11]  A. Bandura.  Self-efficacy: toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. , 1977, Psychological review.

[12]  B F Green,et al.  The challenge of competence and creativity in computerized psychological testing. , 1985, Journal of consulting and clinical psychology.

[13]  A. P. Jagodzinski,et al.  A Review of Methods for Measuring and Describing Users' Attitudes as an Essential Constituent of Systems Analysis and Design , 1986, Comput. J..

[14]  B. Plake,et al.  Comparing computerized versus traditional psychological assessment , 1985 .

[16]  Daniel Joseph Rohner,et al.  Development and validation of an index of computer anxiety among prospective teachers , 1981 .

[17]  Dave Bartram,et al.  Automated testing: Past, present and future , 1984 .

[18]  Michael Simonson,et al.  Development and Validation of a Measure of Computer Anxiety. , 1984 .

[19]  Kristen H. Kjerulff,et al.  Measuring Attitudes toward Computers: Two Approaches. , 1984 .

[20]  S. Meier.  Toward a Theory of Burnout , 1983 .

[21]  R. Schmeck,et al.  The Burned-Out College Student: A Descriptive Profile. , 1985 .

[22]  W. Bowen,et al.  The puny payoff from office computers , 1989 .

[23]  R. Dawis,et al.  Values as second-order needs in the theory of work adjustment , 1978 .

[24]  Robert D. Smith,et al.  Computer anxiety in management: myth or reality? , 1986, CACM.

[25]  Clarice P. Gressard,et al.  Reliability and Factorial Validity of Computer Attitude Scales , 1984 .