Human choice between computerized and traditional methods: Assessing tool readiness from the activity perspective

Based on the premises of activity theory, this study examines how people choose between computerized and traditional methods for various tasks. From the activity perspective, different methods are the tools that a person uses to transform a target object into a desirable outcome. The previous experiences with each method from the external (overt) activities shape the internal (psychological) activities that lead to the formation of the attitude toward using it for future tasks. To capture such a psychological state, a construct called tool readiness and its measure were developed. The results obtained from an empirical study were used to evaluate the content validity, construct validity and predictive validity of the scale.