The Effects of Using Computers on Developing Some Creative Thinking Abilities of Saudi Intermediate School Students

Abstract

The present study aimed at identifying the effects of the experienced use of computers on developing some components of the creative thinking abilities (Originality-Fluency-Flexibility) of Saudi teenagers in both village and urban areas. Subjects of the study included 210 intermediate school students whose average age was 13.2 years. They were randomly divided into four groups. The first group was composed of 70 urban school students who have more than three years of computer experience. The second group included 55 urban school students whose experience with computers was less than three years. The third group was composed of 40 villagers of the students and whose experience with computers was more than three years. The fourth group included 65 students who live in villages, too, but their experience in computers was less than three years. Tools of the study included: The Creative Thinking Test, and a questionnaire. Appropriate statistical analysis was administered such as Analysis of Variance (2 X 2). Results indicated that urban subjects with more than three years of computer experience were better in terms of originality, fluency, flexibility, and creativity. The study ended up with some recommendations and suggestions for further research.