An Exploratory Factor Analysis and a Reliability Analysis of Internet Dependence Index (IDI)

Abstract

The role of technology in the lives of the 21st century learners is both fundamental and crucial. The plethora of various devices can be of use to have an access to the latest music and games, to accomplish a do-it-your own projects available on different websites, or to have a constant communication with their families and peers (Rideout, Foehr, & Roberts, 2010). Moreover, the use of the technological advancement, particularly the Internet, in the field of education has constantly escalated over the years; however, the innovations do not at all times guarantee a positive outcome because they may lead to unfavorable effects (Chou, Condron, & Belland, 2005). “Internet dependence is a term for excessive use of the Internet to the detriment ofone’s physical, psychological, social, or vocational well-being” (Villanova University, n.d.). With internet independence rising among the students of today, the researchers developed an internet dependence index to measure their reliance to it; the instrument focuses on three aspects of internet use: Immoderacy, Recreation and Escapism. The researchers initially came up with 20 questions that delves into the aforementioned aspects and pilot tested on Senior High School Students in a Private High School in Pampanga, Philippines. Through exploratory Factor Analysis (E.F.A.) and Reliability Testing that resulted to a Cronbach’s Alpha of .737 for immoderacy, .619 for escapism, and .692 recreation that falls in the category of acceptable level (Gliem & Gliem, 2003). Furthermore, it presented a three factor-structure for the Index with a and a variance of 51.950%, the researchers managed to reduce unnecessary items and end up with a 12-item Internet Dependence Index for Senior High School Students for an accurate measure of their attachment to internet use.