Computer Use in the United States: 1989. Current Population Reports, Special Studies.

This report provides statistical information on computer use in the United States in 1989, including home, work, and school use, and use according to socioeconomic status, race, and sex. The data show that between 1984 and 1989 there was a substantial increase in the levels of computer ownership and use. Fifteen percent of all U.S. households reported they had a computer. Among children 3 to 17 years old, 46% used a computer either at home or at school. Of the more than 115 million employed adults, 36.8% said they used a computer at work, a significant increase from the 24.6% reported in 1984. Whites experienced higher levels of school use (48.2%) than either blacks (35.1%) or persons of other races (43.6%). Women were shown to have a higher rate of computer use at work; however, this is attributed in part to the type of jobs women hold. Ownership of a computer was most likely in households with yearly incomes of $75,000 or more; only 4.8% of households with income below $15,000 owned a computer. Households with school-age children were more than twice as likely as those without to have a computer. Survey data are presented in four tables in conjunction with the narrative report, and seven detailed tables. Appendices provide definitions and explanations of criteria, as well as the source and accuracy of estimates and selected questions from the survey instrument. (DB)