Abstract
This paper examines differences in Internet access and use between older adults and disadvantaged younger adults in Massachusetts, USA, both before and after participation in a digital literacy training program. The study is a component of a government program for Internet for all. The study focuses on disadvantaged younger adults and older adults because members of these populations may be on the negative side of the digital divide. Over 300 individuals enrolled in digital literacy training programs were surveyed, pre-and post training about their Internet access, knowledge, and use. Demographic characteristics were also collected. The digital literacy training program was funded by a grant from the Massachusetts broadband Institute. The results show for both groups post-training an increase in Internet use and broader range of Internet activities. However they were age specific differences between the two groups in Internet behavior.
Presenters
Carol Mc DonoughProfessor, Economics, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Massachusetts, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
DIGITAL DIVIDE, DIGITAL LITERACY TRAINING, OLDER ADULTS, DISADVANTAGED ADULTS, INTERNET
