The Internet Self-Perception Scale: Measuring Elementary Students' Levels of Self-Efficacy regarding Internet Use

Abstract

This study investigated fourth grade students' perceptions of abilities to use the Internet. The 31-item research instrument measuring Internet SelfPerceptions was adapted for use from the Reader Self-Perception Scale (RSPS) developed by Henk and Melnick (1995). The RSPS survey was based upon Bandura's (1977, 1986, 1995) research in the areas of perceived self-efficacy. Information from an administration of the Internet SelfPerception Scale (ISPS) uncovered four correlated factors, which described children's self-perceptions about their Internet skills. These four dimensions matched factors found with previous studies of self-efficacy and selfperceptions in other content areas and showed high reliability (Cronbach's alpha ranged .73-.87). Additionally, cluster analysis revealed five different types of Internet learners thought to be present in elementary school classrooms. Suggestions for teaching strategies and fostering children's perceptions of Internet skills are provided.

Perceptions of the Internet and Education: A Study with Physics Education Website Users

“…In conclusion, it can be said that most of the research studies on the perceptions focused on specific WBI and/or WAI features; even some of them mainly investigated the effect of the several methods on the learning outcomes and attitudes and reported students' perceptions of those methods. However, Hinson, Distefano, and Daniel (2003) took Internet perception itself and developed a scale to measure primary students' levels of self-efficacy in the use of the Internet.…”

“…Based on the results of the data analysis, the researcher decided to add more questions and dimensions to the scale. Twenty items were taken and modified based on the work of Hinson et al (2003). Their scale was intended to be used in primary classes.…”

The Effects of the Internet on Students' Essay Scores

“…Each teacher received a classroom set (20) of two measures: the Behavior Correlates Questionnaire (Duran, 2003) and the Internet Self Perception Scale (Hinton, DiStefano, and Daniel, 2003). The teachers administered the surveys themselves during the language arts block in late October.…”

“…To account for the possible variance that might be attributable to students' attitudes towards the Internet, I administered the Internet Self-Perception Scale (Hinton, Distefano, and Daniel, 2003 Students' grades in Language Arts. The consent forms that the students and parents signed asked for permission to obtain students' grades in Language Arts class the past semester.…”

“…The Internet Self-Perception Scale (ISP) created by Hinton, DiStefano, & Daniel (2003) measures students' confidence in their ability to use the Internet.…”