Ανίχνευση της τεχνοφοβίας και των επιδράσεών της στην περίπτωση των προπτυχιακών φοιτητών πολιτιστικών προγραμμάτων του ΕΑΠ

Abstract

Current advances on technology and applications development offer solutions both on everyday life and education. Especially in Open and Distance Education, technology plays a key role as it bridges the gap between tutors and students. However the use of technology is not accepted, at least, by all people either to the same degree or to the same way.

The aim of this study was to examine the attitudes of the Hellenic Open University (HOU) students towards technology and to detect the existence of technophobia. The sample was consisted of 605 students and the data were collected using both quantitative and qualitative research methods (appropriate questionnaire and interviews). Participants were attending the courses of “Studies in European Culture”, “Studies in Greek Culture” and “Studies in Spanish Culture” of the HOU.

Data analysis revealed that the majority of students did not qualify as technophobic. However, a great deal of concern was recorded relevant to the use of technology in the learning process as, any potential technological changes in the HOU could result to major changes on the current model of studying. Several factors were also found to affect the degree of technophobia, such as gender, computer use experience, working hours with computer per week, etc.