Primary trainee teachers' attitudes to and use of computer and technology in mathematics: The case of Turkey

This study explores Turkish primary mathematics trainee teachers' attitudes to computer and technology. A survey was conducted with a self constructed questionnaire. Piloting, factor and reliability (α = 0.94) analyses were performed. The final version of the questionnaire has three parts with a total of 48 questions including a Likert type attitude scale which contains 39 statements. The sample is a total of 361 students from the primary mathematics teacher training department in two different universities. The study found that the trainee teachers, in general, are positive towards computer use in mathematics with adequate level of attitudes, and usually express positive feelings about computer and information technology. These perceptions are not gender related as well. The study concludes that the need for training in computer and information technology competency in mathematics remains important, and that such programme needs to be specifically customized to account for the wide range of experiences and attitudes of trainee teachers. © 2010 Academic Journals.