Computer Anxiety in Educators Learning to Use the Computer

Educators throughout the United States are concerned with the issue of delivering computer-based instructional programs to their students. Such a process requires that teachers receive training on the uses of computers in order to implement applications in the classroom. As adult learners they often experience anxiety and frustration during the process of learning. Excessive levels of anxiety can inhibit learning and prevent these individuals from becoming proficient in the use of the computer. This study indicated that the lowering of an individual’s anxiety level occurs over time, and that the timing of such change differs according to the level of previous experience of the participant. Beginners require adequate time working with the computer to allow these anxiety levels to lower, and educators should be cautious about using short-term inservice activities which allow minimal computer contact when working with beginning adults.