Learning Computerese: The Role of Second Language Learning Aptitude in Technology Acceptance

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Learning Computerese: The Role of Second Language Learning Aptitude in Technology Acceptance
Language: English
Authors: Warner, Janis A., Koufteros, Xenophon, Verghese, Anto
Source: Educational and Psychological Measurement. Dec 2014 74(6):991-1017.
Availability: SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 27
Publication Date: 2014
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Second Language Learning, Language Aptitude, Computer Mediated Communication, Construct Validity, Networks, Anxiety, Computer Attitudes, Risk, Personality Traits, Cognitive Ability, Computer Software, Technological Literacy
Assessment and Survey Identifiers: Computer Anxiety Scale
DOI: 10.1177/0013164414520629
ISSN: 0013-1644
Abstract: This article introduces a new construct coined as Computer User Learning Aptitude (CULA). To establish construct validity, CULA is embedded in a nomological network that extends the technology acceptance model (TAM). Specifically, CULA is posited to affect perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, the two underlying TAM constructs. Furthermore, we examine several antecedents of CULA by relying on the second language learning literature. These include computer anxiety, tolerance of ambiguity, and risk taking. Conceptualization of CULA is based on the observation that computer systems use language as communication between the computer and the user, making system usage significantly dependent on the ability of the individual to learn the language. We posit that learning to communicate with computer technology is akin to learning a second language, that is, a language learned after the first language(s) or native language(s), and is referred to as "computerese." The proposed construct, CULA, measures the aptitude of an individual to learn computerese, and it is specified as a second-order variable. It includes measures of three critical facets of computerese pertaining to general hardware/software, programming, and the Internet. Significant relationships are found between computer anxiety, tolerance of ambiguity, and taking risk with CULA, as well as between CULA and TAM constructs.
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 71
Entry Date: 2014
Accession Number: EJ1045258
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This article introduces a new construct coined as Computer User Learning Aptitude (CULA). To establish construct validity, CULA is embedded in a nomological network that extends the technology acceptance model (TAM). Specifically, CULA is posited to affect perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, the two underlying TAM constructs. Furthermore, we examine several antecedents of CULA by relying on the second language learning literature. These include computer anxiety, tolerance of ambiguity, and risk taking. Conceptualization of CULA is based on the observation that computer systems use language as communication between the computer and the user, making system usage significantly dependent on the ability of the individual to learn the language. We posit that learning to communicate with computer technology is akin to learning a second language, that is, a language learned after the first language(s) or native language(s), and is referred to as "computerese." The proposed construct, CULA, measures the aptitude of an individual to learn computerese, and it is specified as a second-order variable. It includes measures of three critical facets of computerese pertaining to general hardware/software, programming, and the Internet. Significant relationships are found between computer anxiety, tolerance of ambiguity, and taking risk with CULA, as well as between CULA and TAM constructs.
ISSN:0013-1644
DOI:10.1177/0013164414520629