A grounded theory analysis of older adults and information technology

J White; A Weatherall

doi:10.1080/036012700407857

A grounded theory analysis of older adults and information technology

J White, A Weatherall

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

Abstract

The study reported in this article used grounded theory methodology to investigate older adults accounts of their use of information technology (IT). A small number of SeniorNet Wellington members volunteered to be interviewed about their experiences with and opinions about computer technology. It was found that participants began using computers because technology was associated with modern life, leading them to recognize the potential that IT had to offer them. Their present, mostly positive, attitudes toward IT were strongly linked with the personal usefulness of IT and direct experience with and personal ownership of IT. Study findings illustrated how involvement with and use of IT by older adults is cyclic and serves to reinforce continuing involvement. The theoretical and practical implications of the results are also discussed. © 2000 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

Original language	Undefined
Pages (from-to)	371-386
Number of pages	16
Journal	Educational Gerontology
Volume	26
Issue number	4
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1080/036012700407857
Publication status	Published - 1 Jun 2000

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10.1080/036012700407857

Cite this

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abstract = "The study reported in this article used grounded theory methodology to investigate older adults accounts of their use of information technology (IT). A small number of SeniorNet Wellington members volunteered to be interviewed about their experiences with and opinions about computer technology. It was found that participants began using computers because technology was associated with modern life, leading them to recognize the potential that IT had to offer them. Their present, mostly positive, attitudes toward IT were strongly linked with the personal usefulness of IT and direct experience with and personal ownership of IT. Study findings illustrated how involvement with and use of IT by older adults is cyclic and serves to reinforce continuing involvement. The theoretical and practical implications of the results are also discussed. {\textcopyright} 2000 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.",

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