Study of self-efficacy perceptions of Social Studies teacher candidates on educational internet usage

This study aimed at examining the self-efficacy perceptions of social studies teacher candidates with respect to educational internet use. This research was conducted on a sample of 174 social studies teacher candidates enrolled in Gaziantep University Nizip Faculty of Education. The “Educational Internet Self-Efficacy Scale”, developed by Sahin, was used as a data collection tool. The relational scanning method, which is a type of quantitative research techniques, was used in this research. The data obtained from teacher candidates were subjected to independent t-tests and one-way variance analyses (ANOVA) using the SPSS 18.00 program. The self-efficacy perceptions of the teachers were examined with respect to variables such as gender differences, the place of internet connection, class where education is given, and the Internet usage period. A positive influence was obtained in favor of male teachers with respect to the gender variable among the social studies teachers; however, no significant difference was found with respect to internet connection medium. Significant differences were observed with respect to the classroom, where they get education.  The results obtained were compared with other studies. Recommendations are suggested as a result of discussion. Key words: Social Studies teacher candidates, educational internet usage, technology education.