Exploring the Perceptions of College Instructors Towards Computer Simulation Software Programs: A Quantitative Study

Abstract

The purpose of the quantitative regression study was to explore and to identify relationships between attitudes toward use and perceptions of value of computer-based simulation programs, of college instructors, toward computer based simulation programs. A relationship has been reported between attitudes toward use and perceptions of the value of simulation learning enhances the use of simulations as a learning tool for college instructors. Previous literature has demonstrated the effectiveness of learning with simulations. Eighty six participants were selected from a national survey bank to complete the Attitudes Toward Using Simulation Instruction Inventory (ASII) questionnaire. A regression analysis was performed determining that the model is linear, the errors have normal distribution (straight line) with frequencies falling inside a 95% confidence level. The independent variable, simulation use, significantly predicted the dependant variables of attitudes and perceptions, p = .04 that is < .05. Simulation use explained a significant proportion of variance in attitudes and perceptions of instructors, F = 3.6 The null hypothesis would be rejected. The dependant variable of frequency of use was not 0. The F - Static for all predictor variables was positive and less than 8.49. Significant relationships exist among the variables. The research showed that positive attitudes and perspectives increase the use of simulations.