Students and the World Wide Web: Issues of Confidence and Competence

Abstract

As students ponder their use of the new technologies in schools and at home, what issues are raised for librarians and teachers? Do teens exaggerate their confidence and competence as they report their perceptions of using technology? In this study, four 16 year olds discussed their personal experiences in using the Internet for work and for pleasure. From their musings, we may begin to see a pattern of developmentally specific activities for using the new technologies that differs from adult expectations.