Computer and internet adoption on large US farms

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网络正面影响读写能力雅思大作文

网络正面影响读写能力雅思大作文In today's digital age, the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing various aspects of human behavior and cognition. One of the areas that has been significantly impacted by the internet is the reading and writing abilities of individuals, especially those preparing for the IELTS exam. While the internet has undoubtedly brought about numerous positive changes, it has also posed challenges to the development and maintenance of strong reading and writing skills. This essay will explore the positive effects of the internet on reading and writing abilities, as well as the negative consequences, andultimately provide a balanced perspective on the issue. To begin with, the internet has undeniably facilitated access to a wide range of reading materials, thereby expanding the knowledge and vocabulary of individuals. With the click of a button, one can access countless articles, books, and academic papers on virtually any topic. This easy access to information has not only broadened people's horizons but has also improved their reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. Furthermore, the internet has provided a platform for individuals to practice and enhance their writing abilities through blogs, social media, and online forums. This constant exposure to diverse writing styles and perspectives has undoubtedly contributed to the improvement of writing skills for many individuals. Moreover, the internet has revolutionized the way people communicate and collaborate on written projects. With the advent of email, instant messaging, and collaborative writing platforms, individuals can now easily exchange ideas, provide feedback, and work together on writing assignments regardless of their geographical locations. This interconnectedness has not only enhanced the quality of writing through collective input but has also fostered a sense of community among writers and readers alike. Additionally, the internet has provided a platform for individuals to publish and share their writings with a global audience, thereby encouraging creativity and self-expression. However, despite these positive impacts, the internet has also brought about several challenges to the development of strong reading and writing abilities. The abundance of digital distractions, such as social media, online videos, and mobile games, has made it increasingly difficult for individuals to focus on reading lengthy texts or engagein sustained writing activities. This constant bombardment of stimuli has led to a decline in attention spans and the ability to concentrate on complex written materials. Furthermore, the informal and abbreviated language used in online communication has seeped into formal writing, leading to a deterioration of grammar, spelling, and overall writing quality among individuals. Another significant issue arising from the internet's influence on reading and writing abilities is the prevalence of misinformation and fake news. With the ease of publishing and sharing content online, individuals are often exposed to inaccurate and biased information, which can significantly impact their critical reading and thinking skills. The inability to discern credible sources from unreliable ones has led to a decline in the overall quality of reading and writing, as individuals may unknowingly incorporate false information into their writing or form misguided opinions based on faulty sources. In conclusion, while the internet has undoubtedly brought about positive changes in the development and enhancement of reading and writing abilities, it has also posed significant challenges to the maintenance of strong literacy skills. The easy access to information, the facilitation of communication and collaboration, and the encouragement ofcreativity are undeniably positive outcomes of the internet's influence. However, the prevalence of digital distractions, the deterioration of formal writing standards, and the spread of misinformation are issues that need to be addressed in order to mitigate the negative impact of the internet on reading and writing abilities. Ultimately, it is crucial for individuals to strike a balance between utilizing the internet as a valuable resource for literacy development and being mindful of its potential pitfalls.。

电脑和因特网英文作文

电脑和因特网英文作文Computer and the Internet have become an integral partof our daily lives. We use them for work, entertainment, communication, and so much more. It's hard to imagine a world without them.The computer has revolutionized the way we work. It has made tasks that were once time-consuming and tedious much easier and faster. We can now create documents, analyze data, and communicate with others with just a few clicks.The Internet has opened up a whole new world of possibilities. We can now connect with people from all over the globe, access a wealth of information, and even shopfor goods and services without ever leaving our homes.With the rise of social media, the Internet has also changed the way we communicate. We can now stay in touchwith friends and family, share our thoughts and experiences, and even meet new people, all with the click of a button.Of course, with all the benefits of the computer and the Internet come some drawbacks. We are now more reliant on technology than ever before, and this can lead to issues such as cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and addiction.Despite these challenges, it's clear that the computer and the Internet have had a profound impact on our lives. They have made the world a smaller, more connected place, and have opened up countless opportunities for work, play, and communication.。

[计算机软件及应用]计算机与网络学习资料

E-mail messages can send non-text files, such as graphic images and sound files, as attachments sent in binary streams
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The main Internet service
E-mail
on WWW servers.
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The main Internet service
WWW
10
The main Internet service
E-mail (Electronic mail)
E-mail was one of the first uses of the Internet and is still the most popular use.
5
History of the Internet
The Internet comes from ARPAnet created by
the U.S. Defense Advanced Internet Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in 1969. In 1983, ARPAnet split into ARPAnet and military MILNET, they are referred to as the early
21Clients, Fra bibliotekervers, and URLs
Clients-An application that requests
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World Wide Web
Characteristics of WWW
Distributed information resources Unified user interface

英语作文互联网

The Internet has revolutionized the way we communicate,access information,and conduct business.Here are some key points to consider when writing an essay on the Internet:1.Introduction to the Internet:Begin by explaining what the Internet isa global network of interconnected computers that allows for the sharing of information and resources.2.History of the Internet:Provide a brief overview of the Internets development,from its origins in the ARPANET project in the late1960s to its widespread adoption in the1990s.3.Impact on Communication:Discuss how the Internet has transformed communication. Mention the rise of email,instant messaging,social media,and video conferencing as ways people stay connected.4.Access to Information:Highlight the vast amount of information available at our fingertips.Discuss the role of search engines like Google in facilitating this access.cational Opportunities:Explain how the Internet has opened up new avenues for learning,including online courses,educational resources,and collaborative projects.6.Ecommerce and Business:Describe the impact of the Internet on commerce,including online shopping,digital marketing,and the growth of the gig economy.7.Cultural Exchange:Discuss how the Internet has facilitated cultural exchange by allowing people from different parts of the world to share and access content from various cultures.8.Challenges and Concerns:Address the challenges posed by the Internet,such as privacy issues,cybercrime,misinformation,and the digital divide.9.The Future of the Internet:Conclude by speculating on the future of the Internet, including potential advancements in technology,such as the Internet of Things IoT,and the implications for society.10.Personal Reflection:End your essay with a personal reflection on how the Internet has affected your life,your work,or your education.Remember to structure your essay with a clear introduction,body paragraphs that explore each point in detail,and a conclusion that summarizes your main e evidence andexamples to support your arguments,and ensure that your essay is wellorganized and coherent.。

Reading For IELTS Writing--Computers and the Internet[A]

Computers and the InternetA computer is a machine that stores information in its memory, and does automated calculations on that knowledge. Computers can be used to do many things, from playing games, to solving very hard math. This allows people to use computers to do jobs, or just to have fun.The Internet is an international computer network linking together thousands of individual networks at military and government agencies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, industrial and financial corporation. TEXT AThe Digital DivideOnce upon a time societies were organised around religion, farming, trade or industry. In many parts of the world today this is still true, but something else is becoming more important – the exchange of information, and the technology that we use to do this. Twenty-four hour news, e-commerce, international call-centres, mobile phones, Global Positioning Systems … all these are making the world smaller and faster. The growth in telecommunications is now giving more and more people access to democratic ideas, to the principles of international law and human rights, to the science that will help their country to develop or to the medical knowledge that can fight disease. It is starting a real global village which people only dreamed of a generation ago.But how can everybody in the world share the recent technological advances? Million of people cannot read these words because they don’t have access to a computer. They don’t understand English either, the language that 80% of the information is written in. They don’t even have a telephone. They are more worried about how far they will have to walk today to get clean water or if they can feed themselves and their families. For most people on this planet, information is not a priority.The contrast between countries that have information technology and those that don’t is called the ‘digital divide’. Scandinavia and South and East Asia have a high number of people who use Information Communication Technology (ICT). Central Africa and the Pacific have almost none.The United Nations is trying to make the information society a reality for more of the developing world. It wants to see rich countries transfer new technology and knowledge to poorer nations.Ten years from now, the plan is that everyone in the world will have a radio or television and that 50% of the world’s population will have access to the Internetfrom schools and universities, health centres and hospitals, libraries and museums. This will improve medical care and education, science and agriculture, business opportunities and employment. At the same time, they say, local communities, languages and cultures will become stronger.Just a dream? Certainly there are some contradictions. Does only good come with freedom of information? If information is power, why will people share it? Doesn’t more technology mean fewer jobs? And how can the exchange of information keep local cultures alive if most of that information is only in one language?It is much easier to get people connected to broadband or put government online in Europe than in South America or the Middle East. However, developing countries often leapfrog the process which richer nations went through, and avoid their mistakes. Brazil collects most of its taxes online these days. There are cyber cities in Dubai and Mauritius. And Taiwan and Hong Kong have better access to ICT than the United Kingdom. Maybe the English language isn’t so important after all.Perhaps the spread of technology means that the old centres of power are also changing. The United States introduced internet technology in the 1970s. But people are asking why they should continue to be in charge. Why should a small organisation in California tell the rest of the world how computers talk to each other?The US says it makes the rules, but it doesn’t control the flow of information. The domain name system (DNS) controls how internet addresses work, but not what a website or database contains. Many want a more international approach, however. But they also want the internet to remain open and free for all to use.Can the world create an information society for all? If a farmer in Bangladesh can read this in the year 2015, then maybe the answer is yes.。

计算机正在改变人们的交流方式的英语作文

Computers Revolutionizing Communication In today's digital era, computers have become an integral part of our lives, revolutionizing the way we interact and communicate with each other. The advent of computers and the subsequent development of the internet have brought about significant changes in the communication landscape, allowing people to stay connected regardless of geographical distances.One of the most significant impacts of computers on communication is the emergence of social media platforms. These platforms have transformed the way we share information, express opinions, and stay connected with friends and family. Social media has made it possible for people to stay updated with the latest news and trends, share their daily lives, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.Another significant change brought by computers is the rise of video conferencing and online meetings. These technologies have made it possible for people to conduct meetings and conferences remotely, saving time and money. Whether it's a business meeting, a virtual classroom, or afamily gathering, video conferencing allows people to come together and interact in real-time, despite beingphysically apart.Computers have also revolutionized the way we access and share information. The internet has become a vast repository of knowledge, and computers provide us with the tools to search, retrieve, and share this information quickly and efficiently. This has led to a more informed and connected society, where people can access information from anywhere in the world at any time.Moreover, computers have enabled new forms of creative expression and communication. Digital art, animation, and gaming have become popular forms of entertainment and expression, allowing people to express their creativity and imagination in new and exciting ways. These digital media forms have also become powerful tools for storytelling and communication, bridging the gap between different cultures and generations.However, while computers have brought remarkable changes to communication, they have also presented some challenges. The rise of onlinebullying, privacy concerns,and the spread of misinformation have raised concerns about the ethical and social implications of computer-mediated communication. It is, therefore, crucial to develop responsible and ethical practices when using computers and other digital tools for communication.In conclusion, computers have revolutionized the way we communicate and interact with each other. They have brought about significant changes in the communication landscape, allowing us to stay connected, share information, and express ourselves in new and exciting ways. However, it is important to remember that while computers provide us with powerful tools for communication, it is our responsibility to use them ethically and responsibly.**计算机正在改变人们的交流方式**在当今数字化时代，计算机已成为我们生活中不可或缺的一部分，它们正在改变我们彼此交流和互动的方式。

Internet English

Standards
There are various standards that govern the operation of the Internet, so as the Internet Standards developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) These standards specify how different devices and applications should interact with each other over the network
Communicate effectively: Use the platform's messaging features to communicate with team members in real time Share ideas, ask questions, and provide feedback
• VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that allows you to create a secure connection over a less secure network, so as the public Internet VPNs are often used to access resources on a private network remotely or to bypass geographical restrictions on websites and services
Servers are computers that provide services to other computers on the network They can host websites, provide email services, store files, and more

计算机正在改变人们的交流方式的英语作文

计算机如何重塑我们的交流方式In the digital age, computers have revolutionized the way we communicate, transforming the landscape of human interaction in profound and unprecedented ways. From the earliest days of telegraphy to the present era of social media and instant messaging, technology has consistently altered the fabric of our conversations and connections.The advent of the computer marked a significant milestone in communication history. Initially, computers enabled the exchange of information through text-based interfaces, revolutionizing the speed and efficiency of data transmission. This shift away from traditional methods of communication, such as letters and telegrams, marked a significant leap forward in terms of speed and accessibility.As technology advanced, the internet emerged as a new medium for communication, connecting people across the globe. Email, in particular, became a ubiquitous tool for personal and professional communication, enabling messages to be sent and received instantaneously, regardless of physical location. This转变 in communication patterns notonly increased efficiency but also fostered new forms of interpersonal relationships, as people could stay in touch with friends and family members far away.Social media platforms further revolutionized communication by introducing new ways to share and consume information. These platforms allowed individuals to create profiles, connect with others, and share their thoughts, experiences, and creations with a wide audience. The rise of social media also gave rise to new forms of communication, such as tweeting, posting updates, and sharing photos and videos, all of which have become integral to modern-day communication.Moreover, the advent of messaging apps like WhatsApp, WeChat, and Messenger has further transformed the communication landscape. These apps enable real-time, instant messaging, voice calls, and video conferencing, effectively blurring the lines between personal and professional communication. The convenience and accessibility of these apps have made it possible for people to stay connected and communicate seamlessly, regardless of their location or time zone.The impact of computers on communication has also been felt in the realm of business and professional communication. Video conferencing tools like Zoom and Skype have made it possible for teams and organizations to collaborate and communicate effectively, regardless oftheir physical locations. This has led to a more globalized and interconnected workforce, where people can work together seamlessly, regardless of their geographical separations.In addition, the rise of chatbots and artificial intelligence (AI) has further transformed the communication landscape. These technologies enable automated responses and interactions, providing customers and users withinstant access to information and assistance. Chatbots and AI have revolutionized customer service, making it possible for companies to provide round-the-clock support and assistance, while also improving efficiency and reducing costs.The computer's influence on communication has not only transformed the way we interact but has also had profound impacts on our society and culture. The rise of the digitalage has given rise to new forms of expression and communication, such as memes, emojis, and digital art, all of which have become integral to modern-day communication. The computer has also enabled the creation and sharing of vast amounts of information and knowledge, fostering a more informed and connected society.In conclusion, computers have revolutionized the way we communicate, transforming the landscape of humaninteraction in profound and unprecedented ways. From the earliest days of telegraphy to the present era of social media and instant messaging, technology has consistently altered the fabric of our conversations and connections. The rise of the digital age has not only transformed the way we interact but has also had profound impacts on our society and culture, fostering a more connected, informed, and expressive world.**计算机如何重塑我们的交流方式**在数字时代，计算机彻底改变了我们的交流方式，以深刻而前所未有的方式重塑了人类互动的景观。

对互联网语言使用的建议英语作文

对互联网语言使用的建议英语作文The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate and interact with one another. It has become an integral part of our daily lives, enabling us to connect with people across the globe, access information instantly, and express ourselves in ways that were once unimaginable. However, the widespread use of the internet has also given rise to a unique form of language that is often referred to as "internet language." This language is characterized by its informality, abbreviations, and the incorporation of visual elements such as emojis and memes.While the use of internet language can be a fun and expressive way to communicate, it is important to recognize that it may not always be appropriate or effective in all contexts. As such, it is important to consider the following recommendations for the use of internet language:Firstly, it is crucial to understand the context in which one is communicating. Internet language is often best suited for informal, casual conversations, such as those that take place on social mediaplatforms or in online forums. However, in more formal settings, such as professional emails or academic writing, it is important to use more traditional and standardized forms of language. Failure to do so may be perceived as unprofessional or inappropriate, and could potentially undermine one's credibility or authority.Secondly, it is important to be mindful of one's audience when using internet language. While some individuals may be comfortable with and even prefer the use of internet language, others may find it confusing or even offensive. It is important to consider the preferences and expectations of one's audience and to adjust one's language accordingly. For example, when communicating with older individuals or those who are less familiar with internet culture, it may be best to use more traditional forms of language.Thirdly, it is important to be aware of the potential for misunderstanding when using internet language. The use of abbreviations, emojis, and other visual elements can sometimes be ambiguous or open to interpretation, and this can lead to miscommunications or misunderstandings. It is important to be clear and concise in one's communication, and to avoid using language that could be easily misinterpreted.Fourthly, it is important to be mindful of the potential for internet language to be perceived as unprofessional or inappropriate incertain contexts. While the use of internet language may be acceptable or even encouraged in some settings, such as social media or online forums, it may be viewed as inappropriate or unprofessional in more formal settings, such as professional emails or job applications. It is important to be aware of these expectations and to adjust one's language accordingly.Finally, it is important to recognize that the use of internet language can have implications for one's personal and professional reputation. The way in which one communicates online can be a reflection of one's character and values, and it is important to be mindful of the impression that one is creating. It is important to use internet language responsibly and to avoid using language that could be perceived as offensive, inappropriate, or unprofessional.In conclusion, the use of internet language can be a fun and expressive way to communicate, but it is important to be mindful of the context in which it is used, the preferences and expectations of one's audience, the potential for misunderstanding, and the implications for one's personal and professional reputation. By following these recommendations, individuals can ensure that they are using internet language in a responsible and effective manner.。

网络的影响英语作文

The Internet has become an integral part of modern life,transforming the way we communicate,learn,and access information.Here are some key points to consider when discussing the impact of the Internet in an English essay:munication:The Internet has revolutionized communication methods.Email, social media,and instant messaging platforms have made it possible to connect with people across the globe instantly.This has not only facilitated personal relationships but also business and diplomatic relations.rmation Access:With a vast amount of information available at our fingertips,the Internet has become the primary source for research and learning.Students can access educational resources,scholars can collaborate on research,and the general public can stay informed about global events.3.Ecommerce:The rise of online shopping has transformed the retail industry. Consumers can purchase goods and services from anywhere in the world without leaving their homes,and businesses can reach a global market.cation:Online learning platforms and courses have made education more accessible.Students can learn at their own pace,and professionals can upskill or retrain without disrupting their work or personal lives.5.Cultural Exchange:The Internet has broken down geographical barriers,allowing for the exchange of cultures,ideas,and traditions.This has led to a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity.6.Employment:The Internet has created new job opportunities in various sectors such as IT,digital marketing,and ecommerce.It has also enabled remote work,providing flexibility for employees and reducing overhead costs for employers.7.Social Movements:Social media platforms have become powerful tools for social movements.They allow for the rapid dissemination of information and the organization of events,leading to increased awareness and participation in social and political issues.8.Privacy Concerns:While the Internet offers many benefits,it also raises concerns about privacy and data security.The collection and misuse of personal information by companies and governments is a significant issue.9.Digital Divide:Despite its widespread use,not everyone has equal access to the Internet.The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to digitaltechnology and those who do not,often exacerbated by economic and educational disparities.10.Mental Health:The Internet can have both positive and negative effects on mental health.While it can provide support networks and resources,excessive use can lead to issues such as anxiety,depression,and social isolation.11.Fake News and Misinformation:The ease of sharing information on the Internet has also led to the spread of fake news and misinformation,which can have serious consequences for individuals and society.12.Innovation:The Internet has been a catalyst for innovation in various fields,from technology and science to art and entertainment.It provides a platform for new ideas and creative expression.In conclusion,the Internet has a profound impact on our lives,offering numerous benefits but also presenting challenges that need to be addressed.It is essential to use this powerful tool responsibly and to work towards a more inclusive and secure digital environment.。

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Computer and internet adoption on large U.S.farmsBrent A.Gloy a,*,Jay T.Akridge ba Department of Applied Economics and Management,305Warren Hall,Cornell University,Ithaca,NY 14853,USAb Department of Agricultural Economics,Purdue University,West Lafayette,IN 47907,USAAbstractThe adoption of the personal computer and the Internet is studied within a sample of large U.S.farms.Factors such as age and education inﬂuence the adoption of both technologies.Likewise,strong relationships exist between the adoption of each technology and the sophistication of farm management and the complexity of the farm business.After controlling for computer adoption,the results suggest there remain several factors limiting Internet adoption.It appears that producers are unsure as to how the Internet can best be used to create value in their farm businesses.©2001Elsevier Science Inc.All rights reserved.1.IntroductionThe personal computer (PC)has become an important management tool on many U.S.farms.The PC enables managers to easily and accurately keep ﬁnancial records,track production processes,summarize data,and generally assist managerial decision-making.Recently,the Internet has emerged as an information technology that has many potential beneﬁts and applications for U.S.farmers.The Internet can be used by producers to access price and product information,access government and university reports and research,interact with other producers and specialists,purchase inputs,sell production,communicate with suppliers and customers,and access application software,among other uses.Although the adoption of the PC is virtually a necessary action for adoption of the Internet,as a technology the Internet has many characteristics that differentiate it from the PC.For instance,the PC is frequently used to process and manipulate a farm’s internal data,while *Corresponding author.Tel.:ϩ1-607-225-9822;fax:ϩ1-607-255-1589.E-mail address:bg49@ (B.A.Gloy).International Food and AgribusinessManagement Review 3(2000)323–3381096-7508/00/$–see front matter ©2001Elsevier Science Inc.All rights reserved.PII:S1096-7508(01)00051-9the Internet allows the farmer to acquire and analyze external data and information.The Internet also provides farmers a convenient environment with which to communicate and transact business with buyers,suppliers,specialists,and other farmers.Unlike PC use,Internet use in agriculture is a relatively recent phenomenon.There are few published studies of Internet use by farmers,and there is little evidence regarding the factors that in ﬂuence Internet adoption.By determining the proportion of commercial farms that use the Internet and the factors that in ﬂuence Internet adoption,input suppliers can begin the process of opportunity and threat identi ﬁcation necessary for the development of strategies that make use of the Internet.In addition,educational insti-tutions and government agencies can better understand how the Internet might be used to interact with large U.S.farms.According to a 1999National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)report,68%of U.S.farms with annual sales over $100,000had computer access and 43%had Internet access.This and other studies of farm computer adoption have shown that computer adoption varies considerably with the farm population under study.Table 1lists several estimates of computer adoption for various farm populations.Although the estimates are not homoge-neous with respect to population or time,these analyses have consistently found a relation-ship between computer adoption and farm size,the age of the primary decision-maker,and the educational background of the primary decision-maker.Many previous studies have examined computer adoption within a subset of farm groups (farms from a speci ﬁc county in California;North Carolina farms;Iowa farms;Texas rice growers;Ohio commercial farms;large cornbelt farms).We examine PC adoption on U.S.farms that generate $100,000in annual sales and produce some combination of six commodities.Next,we examine Internet adoption on these same farms.In doing so,we identify the proportion of the members of this important market segment currently using the Internet,what they are using the Internet for,and the factors that in ﬂuence Internet adoption.In the next section the factors identi ﬁed by previous studies as possible explanations for Table 1Estimates of the number of farms using the PCStudyPopulation Time Percent adopting the PC Huffman and MercierIowa farms 1982–1984 6.2%Putler and ZilbermanCalifornia farms 198625.6%Batte,Jones,and SchnitkeyOhio farms 198724%BakerNew Mexico nonfarm agribusinesses 198744%FearneBritish farms 198812%to 47%JarvisTexas rice growers 199037%Ortmann,Patrick,and MusserLarge corn belt farms 199180%AmponsahNorth Carolina farms 199114.4%Nuthall and Bishop –HurleyNew Zealand farms 199233.6%LewisAustralian farmers 199530%NASS U.S.farms with salesover $100,000199968%324 B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge /International Food and Agribusiness Management Review 3(2000)323–338PC adoption are presented.Then,the data,hypothesized relationships,and models for both PC and Internet adoption are presented.The results of the analysis and conclusions regarding PC and Internet adoption on large farms are given in the last section.2.BackgroundComputer adoption on U.S.farms has been studied by many researchers (Amponsah,1995;Ortmann,Patrick,and Musser,1994;Huffman and Mercier,1991;Batte,Jones,and Schnitkey,1990;Jarvis,1990;Putler and Zilberman,1988).In general,these researchers have found both personal and business characteristics to be related to PC adoption.Some of the personal characteristics found to be related to PC adoption include level of education,age,and off-farm employment.All of the above studies except Jarvis (1990)found a signi ﬁcant relationship between a farmer ’s educational level and PC adoption.Only Jarvis (1990)and Amponsah (1995)failed to ﬁnd a signi ﬁcant relationship between the age of the primary decision-maker and PC adoption.Huffman and Mercier (1991)found that off-farm employment was negatively related to PC adoption.However,Jarvis (1990)found no relationship between the percentage of gross farm income generated by off-farm sources and the probability of PC adoption.These results for farms can be contrasted with those of Baker (1992)who studied PC adoption in nonfarm agribusinesses.Baker (1992)found no support for a relationship between personal characteristics and PC adoption.He hypothesized that the lack of a relationship between personal characteristics and PC adoption was because of more decen-tralized decision making processes in nonfarm agribusinesses.Business characteristics such as experience with other technology,the use of farm records services,the use of consultants,the size of the farm business,the complexity of the farm business,the level of farm income,the type of commodities produced by the farm,and the number of employees have been hypothesized to affect PC adoption (Lewis,1998;Ampon-sah,1995;Baker,1992;Huffman and Mercier,1991;Batte,Jones,Schnitkey,1990;Jarvis,1990;Putler and Zilberman,1988).There is less consistency in the relationship between PC adoption and business characteristics than that found between PC adoption and personal characteristics.It appears that there is a positive relationship between measures of farm size and PC adoption (Amponsah,1995;Ortmann,Patrick,and Musser,1994;Batte,Jones,and Schnitkey,1990;Putler and Zilberman,1988).Although related to farm size,increases in the complexity of the farming operation have also been found to be related to PC adoption (Huffman and Mercier,1991;Jarvis,1990).Researchers have also documented relationships between the production of speci ﬁc commodities (dairy,corn,cotton,etc.)and computer adoption (Huffman and Mercier,1991;Batte,Jones,and Schnitkey,1990;Jarvis,1990).These studies have taken the perspective that the computer is an integral tool for turning farm data into information upon which management can act.In other words,the computer is a key element of the managerial information system (MIS)on most farms.Lewis (1998)describes how the sophistication of farm MIS systems has progressed from manual systems to computerized systems.He suggests that the next step in the evolution of the farm MIS system is Internet use.325B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge /International Food and Agribusiness Management Review 3(2000)323–338326 B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge/International Food and Agribusiness Management Review3(2000)323–338 An important characteristic of the Internet based MIS system is its ability to transcend information gathering and processing.Thus,although the Internet can be viewed as a modest technological extension of the PC,its implementation and business function could be argued to be very different from the PC’s.If this is true,it is likely that the factors that drive PC and Internet adoption will differ.Studies of the general U.S.population suggest that factors such as education,household income,profession,and age impact Internet adoption by consumers(Lake,1999).Because these factors have frequently been associated with PC adoption,this would tend to suggest that similar factors determine Internet adoption on U.S.farms.Unfortunately,it is not clear that these studies have controlled for PC adoption or whether the suggested relationships between Internet adoption and the explanatory factors merely reﬂect the PC adoption decision.There is considerable variation in the estimates of the size of the U.S.population using the Internet.For instance,Lake(1999)reports that studies of Internet adoption in the general U.S.population have produced estimates of60to100million households using the Internet. Within the U.S.farm population,Internet adoption in1999was estimated at43%for U.S. farms with sales over$100,000(NASS,1999).While these studies estimate Internet adop-tion,they do not present rigorous analyses of the factors that inﬂuence adoption.This study addresses these shortcomings and focuses on a smaller segment of the nation’s farms, commercial farms(sales in excess of$100,000).Although accounting for only16.7%of U.S. farms in1997,these farms are an extremely important market segment for most agricultural input suppliers as they generate77.3%of the farm sector’s cash expenditures(Resource Economics Division,Economic Research Service,1998).3.DataThe data used to examine PC and Internet adoption come from a mail survey of10,500 U.S.farms with sales in excess of$100,000.The farms were identiﬁed from a proprietary database and were selected to meet geographical,farm size,and enterprise targets.With respect to enterprises,farms were targeted according to the predominance of corn/soybeans, wheat/barley,cotton,dairy,beef,and hog operations on farms in the database.Details of the sampling procedure can be found in Akridge et al.(2000)or Gloy(1999).The initial survey instrument was pretested with farmers in February1998.After modi-ﬁcation,theﬁnal survey instrument and a postage paid reply envelope were mailed in March 1998.A follow-up reminder card was sent approximately two weeks after the initial mailing. Next,calls were made to nonrespondents in late March.Data collection ended in April1998.Because the survey instrument was quite long,the farms large,and a copy of the results were offered as an incentive for participation(no monetary incentive was employed),the anticipated response was20%.Of the10,500surveys sent,1,742usable questionnaires were returned,for a response rate of16.6%.Corn/soybean growers accounted for the largest percentage of respondents and wheat/barley growers the fewest.The actual response indi-cated that the expected response rates were slightly overestimated in all enterprises except corn/soybeans.Nearly61%of the respondents had one enterprise that generated sales of atleast $500,000and the remainder had one enterprise with sales of at least $100,000.Further description of the sampling procedure and the characteristics of the sample can be found in the appendix.A thorough description of the sampling procedure,survey instrument,and an analysis of the correspondence between the expected and actual samples can be found in Akridge et al.(2000)or Gloy (1999).Respondents were asked several questions related to their farm ’s use of the PC and Internet.Table 2shows the percentage of respondents using the PC and Internet for various purposes.The results indicate that 83%of the respondents own a computer.The most popular use of the computer was ﬁnancial record keeping which was computer assisted on 68%of the farms.Nearly as many commercial producers indicated that they were using the PC for communications (Internet,fax,etc.)(38%)as indicated that they used the PC for production planning purposes (39%).Nearly half of the respondents indicated that they were using the Internet.The most popular uses of the Internet were obtaining product-related information (30%of respondents)and obtaining market related information (26%of respondents).Only 5%of the respondents had used the Internet to make a purchase,and 2%had sold or marketed a product on the Internet.Thus,it appears that in Spring 1998the majority of the producers adopting the Internet were using it as a means for gathering external information.Input suppliers,educational institutions,and government agencies seeking to communi-cate and conduct business with commercial producers on the Internet will ﬁnd it important to understand the factors that encourage or discourage PC and Internet adoption.This knowledge will increase their understanding of the characteristics,motivations,and needs of producers adopting these technologies.Because the decision to adopt is a binary choice (0ϭno,1ϭyes),logistic regression is well suited to predict the probability of adoption as a function of several characteristics hypothesized to in ﬂuence adoption.When modeling Internet adoption,it is crucial to account for the sequential nature of the PC-Internet adoption Table 2Personal computer and Internet use by large U.S.farmsComputer UsePercent using*Use a computer to keep ﬁnancial records68%Use a computer for production planning39%Use a computer for communications (Internet,Fax,etc.)38%Do not own a computer on my farm17%Hire a computer farm records service12%Own a computer,but do not use it much for farm business10%Internet useDo not use Internet51%Obtain product related information30%Obtain market related information26%Obtain management information16%Place orders for products5%Participate in a “chat ”group5%Do not use Internet for farm business purposes5%Sell or market my products2%*N ϭ1,662.327B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge /International Food and Agribusiness Management Review 3(2000)323–338process.Because it is virtually necessary to adopt the PC to use the Internet,this is accomplished by estimating the Internet adoption model within the population of producers who have adopted the PC.An alternative view of the adoption decision is that the PC-Internet adoption decision is a joint decision in which producers adopt the PC to access the Internet. Previous studies of the commercial producer marketplace show that computer adoption was 70%in1993(Center for Agricultural Business,1993).Because such a large proportion of commercial farmers had previously adopted the PC,it appears that for commercial farmers the sequential adoption process is more appropriate than the joint adoption process.The next section describes the characteristics hypothesized to inﬂuence computer and Internet adop-tion.4.Description of the variablesAge(AGEi )and education level(EDUCi)of the farm’s primary decision-maker are thepersonal characteristics included in the adoption models.Consistent with previous studies,it is expected that age will be negatively related to PC adoption and education level will be positively related to PC adoption.Older producers have more established information processing routines and thus have less to gain by adopting the PC(Lewis,1998;Amponsah, 1995;Batte,Jones,Schnitkey,1990).Likewise,older producers are likely to have less experience with computers(Putler and Zilberman,1988).Batte,Jones,and Schnitkey(1990) suggest that computer adoption is unlike adoption of technologies such as hybrid seeds because PC adoption requires substantial learning.Increasing levels of education should be consistent with the ability to learn to use a PC and create value from the information produced by the PC(Amponsah,1995;Huffman and Mercier,1991;Batte,Jones,and Schnitkey,1990;Putler and Zilberman,1988).Thus,older and less educated producers will be less likely to invest in the learning required to adopt the PC.After controlling for PC adoption,one can make strong arguments why the age(AGEi )ofthe primary decision-maker might have either a negative impact or no meaningful impact on the probability of Internet adoption.Following the learning argument,it would be reasonable to suggest that the additional investment in learning associated with Internet adoption is much less than that associated with PC adoption.In other words,once it is economically reasonable to cross the learning threshold and adopt the PC,the marginal cost of the learning required to adopt the Internet is modest.Therefore,within the population of PC adopters,itcould be expected that age(AGEi )should not be strongly related to Internet adoption.On theother hand,one could argue that the beneﬁts offered by the Internet are much different than those offered by the PC.Thus,even though the PC is needed to use the Internet,the knowledge required to use the PC does not prepare the producer to use the Internet.If this were true,one would expect that within the population of PC adopters,increasing age would reduce the probability of Internet adoption.With respect to education level,it is expected that better educated managers are more likely to be able to realize the beneﬁts of the Internet.At this point,one of the primary beneﬁts of the Internet is its ability to lower the cost of information gathering.The more educated the manager,the more likely they are to beneﬁt from easier access to information. 328 B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge/International Food and Agribusiness Management Review3(2000)323–338Therefore,it is expected that education level,(EDUC i )will be positively related to Internet adoption within the population of PC adopters.Establishing a computer system has relatively high ﬁxed costs and small marginal costs.Because larger farms generate more transactions,as size increases larger farms are better able to recover the ﬁxed costs of adoption.Therefore,farm size (SALES )is expected to be positively related to PC adoption.With respect to Internet adoption,the costs of adopting are relatively modest once the computer has been adopted.Therefore,farm size (SALES )is not expected to in ﬂuence Internet adoption.Because the information processing requirements of various farm enterprises differ,it is expected variables indicating the primary commodity enterprise (ENT i )of the farm will be signi ﬁcant as a group in both the PC and Internet models.The formality of the planning process on farms is expected to be positively related to PC and Internet adoption.The MGMT variable represents the number of written management plans used by the farm including written cash ﬂow plans,business plans,risk management plans,long-term goals,succession plans,and marketing plans.The more intensive use of these planning tools indicates that the manager has dedicated increasing amounts of time to the strategic planning type activities.The PC and the Internet both offer signi ﬁcant advan-tages to these managers.The PC ’s usefulness is centered on turning on-farm data into useful information and in the process of identifying internal strengths and weaknesses.One of the most useful features of the Internet is the ease with which one can gather external informa-tion relevant to the farm business.Both types of information facilitate the planning process.Therefore,it is believed that more intensive use of management plans will increase the probability of both PC and Internet adoption.The number of full-time hired,nonfamily farm employees (EMPL )is expected to be positively related to PC and Internet adoption.Farms with large numbers of employees must keep employment records.Likewise,the number of employees on the farm is a measure of the complexity the farming operation.The greater the number of employees,the greater the likelihood that the manager will have the time to conduct sophisticated analyses.This makes it more likely that she/he will utilize the bene ﬁts of computerized analysis and information seeking.The involvement of the primary decision-maker with physical farm work (PHYSICAL )is expected to reduce the probability of both PC and Internet adoption.It is believed that managers not involved with physical labor are more inclined to be involved in a general manager ’s role.As such,managers not participating in physical labor are likely to be spending considerable time planning,gathering,and processing information.The PC and the Internet both offer these individuals considerable advantages in information processing and acquisition.Respondents were also asked to indicate their agreement with several goal statements on a ﬁve-point Likert scale.The goals included in the adoption models were to maximize pro ﬁtability (MAXPROF ),to maximize production per unit of input (MAXPROD ),and to increase the amount of free time for family and leisure (FREE ).Both PC and Internet adoption are expected to be positively related to increasing agreement with the maximize pro ﬁt,maximize production,and increase free time goals.It is expected that producers more focused on maximizing pro ﬁt and production will perceive that the PC and Internet are tools 329B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge /International Food and Agribusiness Management Review 3(2000)323–338that can be used to achieve these goals.The PC allows the producer to more efﬁciently keep records and analyze production information.Likewise,the Internet can potentially offer the producer a great deal of convenience in acquiring information.In addition,the e-commerce strategies of manyﬁrms are focused on providing a more convenient way to make purchasing decisions.Gloy and Akridge(1999)found that four market segments characterize commercial producers’attitudes toward the bundle of goods and services that might be provided by agricultural input suppliers.Membership in these buying segments is expected to inﬂuence PC and Internet adoption.Segment membership was accounted for with a set of indicator variables for Price buyers(PRICE),Convenience buyers(CONV),and Performance buyers (PERF)(Balance buyers were the omitted group).Because Price buyers were focused on purchasing from suppliers with the lowest priced products and services it is expected that they willﬁnd the Internet to be an extremely useful tool.Performance buyers were generally interested in product performance factors when selecting their input suppliers.It is expected that Performance buyers will be more likely to adopt both the PC and the Internet than members of the Convenience segment.Performance buyers shouldﬁnd the PC useful in analyzing the internal data generated by their operations and the Internet useful for accessing external production and marketing information.Because Convenience buyers were very reliant on local inﬂuences and local dealers,it is expected that they will be less likely toﬁnd the Internet useful.Balance buyers demanded a wide array of services and information and reasonable prices.These producers shouldﬁnd the Internet and PC quite useful and are expected to be more likely to adopt the PC and Internet than Convenience buyers.5.ModelThe probability of PC adoption was estimated with the logistic regression equation in(1).lnͩp1Ϫp ͪϭ␤0ϩ͸iϭ14␤i AGE iϩ͸iϭ510␤i EDUC iϩ␤11SALESϩ͸iϭ1216␤i ENT iϩ␤17MGMTϩ␤18EMPLϩ␤19PHYSICALϩ␤20MAXPROF(1)ϩ␤21MAXPRODϩ␤22FREEϩ͸iϭ2325␤i SEGMENT iwhere ln is the natural logarithm,p is the probability of adopting the computer;the␤i’s areparameters to be estimated;AGEi is a series of four indicator variables for membership in anage category(less than35years old is the omitted group);EDUCi is a series of six indicatorvariables for membership in a speciﬁc education category(attended high school is theomitted group);SALES is total farm sales in dollars;ENTi is a series ofﬁve indicatorvariables representing the farm commodity enterprise that generates the greatest sales (corn/soybeans is the omitted group);MGMT is an index which ranges from0to6and represents the level of written long-term business planning used by management(0ϭfew 330 B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge/International Food and Agribusiness Management Review3(2000)323–338written business plans,6ϭwritten management plans for most long-term business needs);EMPL is the number of full-time hired,nonfamily farm employees;PHYSICAL is an indicator variable indicating that the primary decision maker is involved in physical work (0ϭno,1ϭyes);MAXPROD,MAXPROF,and FREE are the importance of each goal measured on a ﬁve-point Likert scale (1ϭnot at all important,5ϭvery important);and SEGMENT i is a series of three indicator variables for buying segment membership (the Balance segment is omitted).To model the probability of Internet adoption one must control for computer adoption.One possibility is to change the dependent variable in (1)to the natural logarithm of the odds of Internet use and estimate (1)with an additional indicator variable identifying computer owners and interaction effects between computer ownership and all the other variables in the model.An alternative is to replace the dependent variable with the natural logarithm of the odds of Internet adoption and control for computer ownership by only estimating the model within the population of commercial producers that had already adopted the PC.Because only 4%of the total respondents used the Internet without owning a computer,the latter approach was adopted.6.ResultsThe logistic regression models were estimated with the logistic procedure in SAS V7(SAS,1989).The parameter estimates for the PC adoption model are given in Table 3.The chi-square statistic for the likelihood ratio test of the joint signi ﬁcance of all the nonintercept parameters is highly signi ﬁcant and the model correctly classi ﬁes 84%of the respondents.The statistical signi ﬁcance of the individual parameters was assessed with a Wald test statistic,which has a chi-square distribution.The signi ﬁcance of the groups of indicator variables for age,education,commodity enterprise,and market segment were assessed with likelihood ratio tests.The marginal change in probability was calculated as the product of the parameter estimate and the logistic density function evaluated at the mean of all the explanatory variables.1Consistent with previous studies,age and education are important in explaining the probability of PC adoption.However,the probability of PC adoption does not generally fall as age increases.For instance,other things equal,respondents in the 35to 44and 45to 54year old age groups have a greater probability of adopting the PC than those under 35years of age.Above 54years of age,the probability of computer adoption falls.Levels of education above high school attendance increase the likelihood of computer adoption,with a master ’s level education and beyond greatly increasing the probability of adoption.Several ﬁrm characteristics were important in explaining PC adoption.Total farm sales were positively related to adoption,but its marginal effect on the probability of adoption was quite small.With other variables held at their averages,an extremely large increase in total sales is required to increase the probability of adoption by one percentage.In other words,the relationship between size and computer adoption exists,but its practical effect on the probability of adoption is small.Increasing use of full-time hired,nonfamily employees increased the probability of PC adoption.In general,one would expect that a greater number 331B.A.Gloy,J.T.Akridge /International Food and Agribusiness Management Review 3(2000)323–338。

Computer and internet adoption on large US farms

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