Computer attitude scales: How relevant today?

Since the increase in the use of computers as learning tools, there have been many scales developed that can measure various aspects of ‘computer attitude’. The aim of this study is to examine the relevance of a number of these scales and determine whether they are still appropriate for use today. Four computer attitude scales, which are used widely, are assessed. It was found that the scales are reliable. However, the degree of predictive validity for each scale varied and the various underlying constructs appear to reflect different aspects of attitude. In addition, these constructs had changed since the original creation of the scales. This suggests that the traditional style of computer attitude scale is no longer as relevant as when first developed, and judicious selection and care need to be exercised over their use and the interpretation of findings.