Computer anxiety and its correlates: a meta-analysis

In this study we report results from a meta-analysis of relationships between computer anxiety and its three correlates-age, gender, and computer experience. Only studies published between 1990 and 1996 were included in the analysis. Findings of this meta-analysis are: (1) female university undergraduates are generally more anxious than male undergraduates, but the strength of this relationship is not conclusive; (2) instruments measuring computer anxiety are generally reliable, but not compatible with one another; and (3) computer anxiety is inversely related to computer experience, but the strength of this relationship remains inconclusive. Limitations of the methodology and implications of the findings are discussed. Directions for future studies are suggested. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.