Community Colleges in the Information Age: Gains Associated with Students' Use of Computer Technology

Abstract

Computer literacy is increasingly important in higher education, and many educational technology experts propose a more prominent integration of technology into pedagogy. Empirical evidence is needed to support these theories. This study examined community college students planning to transfer to 4-year universities and estimated the relationship between students' use of technology and their self-reported educational and technology gains. In doing so, this study provides valuable information for 4-year university and community college administrators, instructors, and students. Results indicate a significant relationship between students' use of technology for academic purposes and self-reported educational gains as well as technological gains. These results add support to claims of the need for a more symbiotic relationship between technology and pedagogy. Implications are discussed for how to better prepare community college students for successful transfer to 4-year institutions. Suggestions on how close the gap between high and low technology users are also discussed.