Computer Technology Utilization by Metro Suburban High School Counselors

The purpose of this study was to investigate how high school counselors are using computer technology. The researcher\u27s goal was to determine if high school counselors are using computer technology, how they are using computer technology, and how frequently they are using computer technology. After a review of literature relating to counselors and technology, it is determined that a study was warranted to determine how computer technology is used by high school counselors. The researcher used a 10-item, self-developed and tested survey instrument designed to investigate how high school counselors use computer technology, how frequently it was used and how proficient they were in using computer technology. A total of 72 high school counselors responded to the survey. It was distributed electronically from a listserv of 78 high school counselors in the metro-Atlanta area. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. The use of computer technology allows high school counselors to spend more time with students rendering services to enhance learning. Using computer technology helped the well-prepared high school counselor complete their work more expeditiously by serving a larger population, targeting interventions and focusing energy where it is most needed: helping student achievement. 2 Because of the limited data available to support high school counselors using computer technology, a study of this nature was needed. This study will serve as a valuable tool providing supporting empirical data for school counseling leaders, school administrators and other educational stakeholders in the decisions-making process regarding issues relating to school counselors. This research validates the limited literature and provides current data on the various ways high school counselors are using computer technology. Hopefully, this research will be yet another tool for educational decision makers and will lead to further studies in the area of school counseling and technology