Adoption and use of computer mediated communications : reactions of female site coordinators in a distributed education system

Abstract

This study examines women's reactions to the introduction of computer-mediated communications (CMC). The literature suggests women exhibit some reluctance in the use of computer technology. There are, however, computer technologies, such as CMC, which appear conducive to the learning and working conditions preferred by women. This study examined the adoption and use of the CoSy conferencing system by women site coordinators. The Hiltz et al. model of acceptance was used as the conceptual framework for the study. This model views acceptance as a learning process in which computer users require time to learn the skills necessary to become competent users of the CMC system. Hiltz et al. used three major categories of variables, system features, group factors and individual difference measures to describe the various factors that influence the "acceptance" of CMC systems. The acceptance model focuses on how individual difference measures interact with system features and group factor variables of the CMC system. Acceptance is measured\by the individual's use of and satisfaction with CMC. \ Consistent with Hiltz' approach, this study examined ' the reactions of a group of women site coordinators to the system feature and group factor variables of the CoSy computer conferencing system. Use and perceived satisfaction with the system were used as indicators of the women's acceptance of the CoSy system. The results indicate the women were well satisfied with the cooperative social arrangement of the group. The women were also satisfied with the system features of the CoSy conferencing system.