Human sciences students` attitudes towards computers and their computer use : an exploratory study at the Matriculation Centre, International Islamic University Malaysia

Abstract

This study investigates the attitudes towards computers among the Humans Sciences Students at the Matriculation Centre, International Islamic University Malaysia. It is also examines the level of computer use as well as computer knowledge among the students. The study involved 200 participants (100 male and 100 female students) who were randomly selected using the cluster random sampling method from the Human Sciences Department. It used questionnaires comprising a demographic background questionnaire, a computer use questionnaire, a computer knowledge questionnaire and Selwyn’s Computer Attitude Scale for 16-19 Education. The findings reveal that Human Sciences students regardless of their gender and level of study, have positive attitudes towards the computer. However, despite having positive attitudes, they rated themselves as ‘beginner’ computer users. There are, nevertheless, differences between the levels of study on their attitudes towards computers. The research outcome shows the second year students obtained higher scores that the first year students although both groups have relatively positive attitudes. Besides, the second year students labeled themselves as ‘intermediate’ computer users while the first year students considered themselves as ‘beginners’. Additionally, Human Sciences students, regardless of their gender and level of study, accessed the computer on a weekly basis.