Toward the use of the computer in the workplace: Changing the culture of school administration in Malaysia

The sample of the study comprised 66 administrators from 11 selected secondary schools in Malaysia. A questionnaire was used to obtain the data. Findings indicated a high level of computer usage for administrative processes in schools. The administrators have positive attitudes toward using computers. There were no significant differences in computer usage levels based on position, gender and age. No significant linear correlation existed between the levels of computer usage and school administrators' attitudes towards computers, and between the levels of computer usage and frequency of participation in in-service computer courses.

Problems faced in using computers in school administration were difficulties with computer viruses, obtaining appropriate software, , hardware damages, inadequate computers and printers, and interrupted power supply. The lack of in-service courses was not a major deterrence. However, commitment, efforts to obtain suitable software, improve working surroundings, and the increase in availability of hardware for administrative purposes are among saline factors that promote the pace of these digital innovations and elements of change in the school workplace.