ERIC Number: EJ1117846
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1056-3997
EISSN: N/A
Computer Proficiency for Online Learning: Factorial Invariance of Scores among Teachers
Martin, Amy L.; Reeves, Todd D.; Smith, Thomas J.; Walker, David A.
Mid-Western Educational Researcher, v28 n3 p247-263 2016
Online learning is variously employed in K-12 education, including for teacher professional development. However, the use of computer-based technologies for learning purposes assumes learner computer proficiency, making this construct an important domain of procedural knowledge in formal and informal online learning contexts. Addressing this concern, this study examined the score properties and invariance (N = 11,709) of an eight-item self-report measure of computer proficiency for online learning, the CPOL. Results from a confirmatory factor analysis suggest that the hypothesized unidimensional structure undergirded the instrument's scores, and invariance analyses suggested that the instrument functions similarly across teacher populations defined by gender, grade level taught, and age, and over time. Specifically, the results showed "strict" score invariance for all teacher groupings except for age. Discussed are potential proximal and distal applications of, and directions for future research concerning the CPOL.
Descriptors: Online Courses, Computer Literacy, Computer Uses in Education, Educational Technology, Factor Analysis, Scores, Elementary School Teachers, Secondary School Teachers, Teacher Surveys, Factor Structure, Goodness of Fit, Statistical Analysis
Mid-Western Educational Research Association. P.O. Box 34421, Chicago, IL 60634-0421. Tel: 419-372-7401; Fax: 419-372-2828; e-mail: mer@bgsu.edu; Web site: http://www.mwera.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Department of Education (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: U286AO50018