Assessing Students' Ability to Use Computers: theoretical considerations for practical research

Abstract

The assessment of students' ability to use computers should be a central tenet of educational computing research, but until now most studies have relied on vague and imprecise definitions of what actually constitutes being able to use a computer. More often than not researchers are content to accept a self-evaluation from the student, often in the form of a response to a single question, and even the more elaborate attempts to measure ability have proved too narrow or ill-focused to be of lasting value. This paper argues that before attempting to assess computer ability the overall nature of the concept should first be considered. From this, a theoretical framework of ability can then be constructed on which to base subsequent practical assessment. The paper also raises methodological issues to be considered by future research into students' use of computers.

Pupil perspectives on the contribution of information and communication technology to teaching and learning in the secondary school

“…Nevertheless, they experienced situations where they were hampered in exploiting this potential because of lack of proficiency in using the tools. This might be seen as a predictable consequence of their largely occasional and irregular opportunities to make use of ICT in many subject areas, inhibiting their development of the constituent elements of digital literacy (Gilster, 1997;Selwyn, 1997;Brindley, 2000). Although pupils generally welcomed the way in which ICT tools effected tasks, some were concerned to retain control over their work.…”

Teaching information technology to the ‘computer shy’: a theoretical perspective on a practical problem

“…The user must gain an individual sense of 'meaning' and 'purpose' that the computer can provide in their lives (Wild, 1996). As Selwyn (1997) needs and purposes they will use a computer for and this should be reflected in the IT skills that they are taught. For example, although a worthwhile application, it is wrong to assume that every user will benefit from learning to use a database.…”