THE COMPUTER USE SCALE - 4 DIMENSIONS OF HOW PEOPLE USE COMPUTERS

An instrument to measure the various ways people use computers was dev eloped and evaluated. Computers can be used as word processors, game m achines, communication tools, accounting tools, and for a myriad of ot her applications. The Computer Use Scale (CUS) measures how people use computers across four dimensions: Enthusiasm, Entertainment, Efficien cy, and Communication. These scales measure the extent to which indivi duals use computers as ''cutting-edge'' technology, as playthings, as tools to create better work in less time, or to communicate with other s. The scale was found to be reliable and was able to detect differenc es among various classes of users. Applications of the scale to comput er training, software design, and job placement are discussed.