Psychhological Factors Affecting the Use of Information Technology in Education

Abstract

Advancements in technology are inevitably reflected in educational systems. Some competitive schools in Turkey have completed their hardware and software needs and what remains to be done is to equip the people who take part in the educational system to make efficient use of information technology. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which teachers and students Were ready to make use of information technology at a competitive school which was technologically ready. Tests of computer literacy, frequency of making use of technology and scales of technophobia including an anxiety scale, an attitude scale and a scale to measure thoughts related with computers were administered to teachers and students. The results showed that about 40% of the teachers and about 35% of the students had differing levels of technophobia. When teachers and students were compared, students were found to be more knowledgeable and less technophobic than the teachers. The findings indicated the need to take affective factors into consideration for effective use of information technology. In line with needs assessment studies ample opportunity should be given to teachers and students to have hands on experience with technology. In-service training for teachers and more courses for students as well as cooperation with guidance counsellors were proposed.