Studying the teachers' self-efficacy beliefs towards computers

The aim of this research is to explore some cognitive and motivational correlates of teachers' attitudes towards the computer in school. Specifically, we have compared teachers "perceived self-efficacy" (Bandura, 1986; 1997) with their approach to the computer, as an educational tool. A computer self efficacy (CSE) scale, modified from an English version developed by (Eachus and Cassidy, 1997) was administered to 43 teachers from various schools. The same subjects filled in a questionnaire which we provided for exploring their computer experience (CE). Results revealed high correlation between self-efficacy and computer experience, suggesting that self efficacy is an important cognitive correlate of expertise in the use of ICT. In the light of these results, we argue that self efficacy towards the computer should also be considered as an important factor in programming further training on ICT for teachers.