Internet use equals computer literacy?

Abstract

This study reports an analysis of IT use by undergraduate university students. The term ‘computer literacy’ is as widely used now, as it was previously, but the meaning has changed as has how and why computers are used. Thirty years ago computer literacy meant the ability to program in a main frame environment then moved to meaning using computers to manipulate data. Now computer literacy seems to mean a number of things, including being comfortable using on-line tools.The findings of this study indicate that there is little relationship between how a person rates their overall computing ability and how they rate their ability in specific areas. However, a paired samples t-test, between on- line and off-line activities, returned a significant (p < 0.05) mean difference between these two activities. This suggests further investigation is warranted.