Attitudes toward the computer: construct validation of an instrument with scales differentiated by content

摘要

In the present study, the construct validity of an instrument for the content-differentiated assessment of attitudes toward the computer is examined. The instrument is designed primarily for university students of the humanities and the social sciences. It contains eight scales related to different content aspects which are based on three dichotomous distinctions: (1) the computer as an instrument for learning and working versus the computer as an instrument for entertainment and communication; (2) personal experience with the computer versus consequences of computer technology for society; and (3) the computer as a ‘beneficial tool’ versus the computer as an ‘autonomous entity’ (cf. Brock & Sulsky, 1994. Attitudes toward computers: construct validation and relations to computer use. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 15, 17–35). For validation purposes, confirmatory factor analyses were conducted (n=232). The measurement model of content-differentiated scales was contrasted with five more restrictive (nested) models assuming bidimensionality (‘beneficial tool’ vs. ‘autonomous entity’), and estimates for the reliability and discriminant validity of the eight attitude scales were computed. The results fully corroborate the measurement model of content-differentiated scales. Consequences for the assessment of attitudes toward the computer in general are discussed.