Computer classes for older people: motivations and outcomes

Abstract

Purpose

A “digital divide” exists between older and younger people in terms of computer use and older people’s uptake of computer training programmes in the UK remains low. The purpose of this paper is to identify the motivations and outcomes of computer classes for some older people and the contributory factors.

Design/methodology/approach

One-to-one qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants at a computer class in a London community centre. Using a topic guide, interview transcripts underwent thematic analysis. The theoretical perspective of “ageing in place” (the ability to stay in one’s own home in later life) was used when interpreting the findings.

Findings

Participants had been motivated to attend the class initially to gain computer skills. Initial motivation was influenced by the death of a spouse and the desire to remain mentally active. The main outcome by the class was acquisition of computer skills. Psychological and social benefits were also reported, the latter constituting motivation for continued attendance. Computer ownership and gender differences in preferred teaching style influenced class outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

Although this was a small sample comprising older people solely from one community, participant backgrounds varied and the findings suggest that further research with a larger, more culturally heterogeneous sample would be valuable.

Originality/value

Computer classes benefit older people wishing to learn computer skills which may facilitate “ageing in place”. There has been little research in this area.

Citation

Zaidman, S. and Tinker, A. (2016), "Computer classes for older people: motivations and outcomes", Working with Older People, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 121-130. https://doi.org/10.1108/WWOP-02-2016-0003