ERIC Number: EJ827220
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Mar
Pages: 20
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0360-1277
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
ICT and Older People: Beyond Usability
Hernandez-Encuentra, Eulalia; Pousada, Modesta; Gomez-Zuniga, Beni
Educational Gerontology, v35 n3 p226-245 Mar 2009
This study examined the use that older, regular users of computers make of information and computer technology in their daily lives. Opinions from such users were obtained regarding what they want these technologies to offer them in the future. By means of a discussion group and an online questionnaire, our critical case examined a group of mature senior students from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (online learning) who have used computers and the Internet in their activities. In general, the participants needed to know the function of the tool beforehand and to have continued support and confidence. In particular, they need the certainty that the future technology will allow them to maintain their independence and autonomy. Older people's adoption of IT needs to be treated as more than merely a question of usability. Attitudes, experience of use, and perceived benefits are also key aspects that must be taken into account. (Contains 7 tables.)
Descriptors: Discussion Groups, Online Courses, Computers, Information Technology, Internet, Older Adults, Questionnaires, Computer Attitudes, Personal Autonomy, Computer Literacy, Foreign Countries
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Spain
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A