Abstract

Research on perceived locus of control indicates that there is a positive correlation between internal locus of control and a variety of cognitive behaviors associated with academic achievement, that the perceived locus of control of educationally disadvantaged students is more external than average, and that the perceived locus of control of such students can be made more internal through intervention. Findings also suggest that computer based instruction (CBI) classroom environments that are student-centered and cooperative, and promote individualized instruction, may change the perceived locus of control of the students involved to one in which they believe themselves to be more in control of their own learning. Analyses of interviews conducted with 197 teachers and 718 students participating in New York City's Computer Pilot Program for educationally disadvantaged students in grades 3-12, the standardized test scores of 3,795 students, and classroom observations support the efficacy of CBI for the delivery of basic skills remediation to these students. It is suggested that the success of the CBI programs evaluated is derived at least in part from the effects of the CAI environment on the students' perceptions of control over their own learning. (28 references) (DB)

Citation

Swan, K. Perceived Locus of Control and Computer-Based Instruction. Retrieved June 6, 2023 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/143542/.

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Keywords

• academic achievement
• Basic Skills
• Computer Assisted Instruction
• Educationally Disadvantaged
• Elementary Secondary Education
• Individualized Instruction
• Intervention
• Interviews
• Locus of Control
• Remedial Instruction
• student attitudes