Adolescent preferences of microcomputer methods in the home economics classroom

A questionnaire was developed to obtain secondary students' preferences toward microcomputer instructional methods in the home economics classroom. The responses determined which instructional methods on the computer are most appealing to students. The subjects also identified which home economics courses were currently utilizing the microcomputer and which instructional methods were being used. Subjects were also asked to name preferred computer software. The independent variables in the study were: sex, grade level, type of computer usage at home, experience on computer, and type of home economics course in which subject was enrolled. Subjects consisted of 325 secondary students enrolled in home economics courses in the Irving Independent School District. Teachers at five campuses were asked to participate by choosing intact classes in which to issue the instrument. A variety of courses, grade levels, and sexes were represented in the sample. The instrument was developed based on a literature review and input from an expert panel. The instrument was tested for content validity and test-retest reliability with a pilot study. A t-test was used to analyze the test-retest. A percentage and frequency count was used to analyze data from questions on the instrument. Data were also analyzed using chi square. The results of the analysis showed no significant differences in student preferences of microcomputer instructional methods by sex or type of experience of students on the microcomputer. The results showed significant differences in student preferences of microcomputer instructional methods by grade level, frequency of computer usage at home, and type of home economics course in which enrolled. The findings also indicate that all instructional methods are being used in the home economics classroom. Student primary preference was toward banner/sign production.