The Development of a Valid and Reliable Measure of Technological Literacy for Adults

Abstract

All people interact with technology on a daily basis. A technologically literate population is not only important for the individual, but also for businesses, organizations, and policy makers by supporting a modern workforce, enhancing social well-being, narrowing the digital divide, increasing citizen participation, and improving decision making (Pearson et al., 2002). The Standards for Technological Literacy, Characteristics of a Technologically Literate Citizen, and Characteristics of a Technological Literacy Person were utilized to develop a measurement tool designed specifically for technological literacy in adults. Technological literacy was defined as including three dimensions (Knowledge, Capabilities, and Critical Thinking). These dimensions formed a conceptual framework which guided the development of a pool of potential items. Expert review and focus group feedback was used for revision. A sample of 208 Midwest college students enrolled in a general education technological literacy course responded to the items and also took two existing measures which assess similar constructs (the Survey of Technological Literacy and the Technology Inventory Profile). Analysis of their data guided final item selection and suggests that the new measure is valid and reliable. The Adult Technological Literacy Scale can be used for research, student placement, and course evaluation.