An Investigation into Students' Preexisting Computer Skills and Attitudes toward Internet-Delivered Instruction

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In general, research in Internet-delivered instruction has reflected practice rather than driven it. Few research-based guidelines exist to help faculty identify factors that may increase student learning and motivation when using this delivery system. The purposes of this study were to assess the current state of students' computer skills, examine students' attitudes toward Internet-delivered instruction, and identify those components of an Internet course deemed important based on students' demographics, computer experience, computer skills, and prior Internet-delivered course experience. Results indicated that overall student computer skills were relatively shallow. Additionally, students were generally neutral toward Internet-based instruction, with those having prior Internet instruction experience far less optimistic concerning the degree to which technology may interfere with learning. However, those with prior experience were more likely to recommend taking an Internet-delivered course. Implications for Internet course design and implementation as well as future research are presented.