How Seniors in Taiwan Use Information Technology: Computer and Cell Phones

ABSTRACT

In most developed and developing nations seniors lag behind the general population in information technology (IT) adoption and use. This phenomenon has been labeled the “gray divide” by various authors. This study examines the use of IT by seniors in Taiwan. We conducted a survey to examine Taiwanese seniors’ computer and cell phone ownership and use as well as attitudes and behaviors that result from and influence use, to better understand the extent to which Taiwanese seniors have and will utilize IT. We found that seniors in Taiwan had generally high usage and access to computers and cell phones; however, the duration of use these two devices was relatively low. Our focus was on computers and mobile phones because they are the most commonly used personal IT appliances. These devices are the “face” of IT to users. This study also examined self-efficacy, satisfaction, and comfort with these devices, as well as positive and negative attitudes, because research has shown these to influence the use of IT. Taiwanese seniors had generally positively attitudes and beliefs toward information technology.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Alexander N. Chen

Alexander N. Chen, PhD, is a full professor of Management at the University of Central Arkansas. He had work at Penn State Altoona, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and Macau University of Science and Technology. His research areas are computer/cell phone as well as medical information usage for seniors; international business; and e-payment.

Ronald E. McGaughey

Ronald E. McGaughey, PhD, is the Acxiom Professor of MIS at the University of Central Arkansas. His research appears in many journals including the European Journal of Operational Research, and he serves on numerous editorial boards. He has management experience in the textile, construction, and logging industries.

Steven M. Zeltmann

Steven M. Zeltmann, PhD, is a professor of MIS at the University of Central Arkansas and past department chair. He has published in MISQ, CACM, JCIS, and many other academic journals plus two textbook editions. Dr. Zeltmann is a past editor of the Academy of Information and Management Sciences Journal.

Hsin-Ke Lu

Hsin-Ke Lu, PhD, is the Director of Information Management (Master Program) and the Dean of School of Continuing Education at Chinese Culture University in Taiwan. His academic interests focus on e-learning, corporate structure, lifelong learning, and information system planning (Enterprise Architecture).

Maria R. Lee

Maria R. Lee, PhD, is a full professor of the Department of Information Technology and Management at Shih Chien University, Taipei, Taiwan. Her research interests include big data analytics, e-commerce, and knowledge management.