Computer anxiety: A cross-cultural comparison of university students in ten countries

• Published in: Computers in human behavior 1995, Vol.11 (1), p.45-64
• Main Authors: Rosen, Larry D., Weil, Michelle M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Anxiety; Biological and medical sciences; College Students; Computer Anxiety; Computers; Cross Cultural Studies; Czechoslovakia; Educational psychology; Factor Structure; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Higher Education; International Programs; Italy; Japan; Measures (Individuals); Psychology. Psychoanalysis. Psychiatry; Psychology. Psychophysiology; Pupil and student. Academic achievement and failure; Questionnaires; Sociocultural Factors; Tables (Data); Technophobia; Undergraduate Students
• ISSN: 0747-5632; 1873-7692
• DOI: 10.1016/0747-5632(94)00021-9

This study compared the construct of computer anxiety in university students across ten countries. A factor analysis of the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale (CARS) produced a three-factor model of computer anxiety (Interactive Computer Learning Anxiety, Consumer Technology Anxiety, and Observational Computer Learning Anxiety) for students in seven universities across the United States. The factor structures from students in nine countries (Australia, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Japan, Spain, and Yugoslavia) were examined using Confirmatory Factor Analytic procedures. Each country's factor structure was first compared to the United States three-factor model and then modified to provide the best possible three-factor model of computer anxiety for each country. Results indicated that each country possessed a unique culture-dependent model of computer anxiety. For two countries (United States and Australia), Interactive Computer Learning Anxiety included learning to operate a computer plus encountering computer problems. For the eight other countries, Interactive Computer Learning Anxiety captured only the aspect of learning to operate and program computers while a separate Computer Victimization factor dealt with anxiety surrounding computer problems. The Observational Computer Learning Anxiety and the Consumer Technology Anxiety factors also differed between countries. Similarities and differences in the factor structures are discussed in light of cultural characteristics, computer education, and computer software and hardware.