Situation and Demand Regarding ICT Training of Elderly in Bangkok

Abstract

This study employs a mixed method research, which is a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures, to investigate situation and demand in relation to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) training of the elderly in Bangkok. For quantitative method, questionnaires are used to obtain information from a total of 355 senior citizens. These data are examined and evaluated by way of descriptive statistical analysis involving frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation, with t-test and a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). For qualitative method, in-depth interviews of 10 coordinators of the Association for the Elderly are undertaken, and a focus group of 10 representatives of the Association for the Elderly is employed. The results show that a majority of the elderly do not have a computer (56.3%) or experience of using ICT (33.8%), but indicate demand for ICT training (59.4%) with regard to reading information and news, and communicating by way of the internet. In detail, there is demand for free training, courses dealing with computer use and the internet as well as searching queries, convenience of travel to training centres, and trainers who understand the capability of the elderly. Comparison by income shows that the elderly whose average monthly income is more than 30,000 bahts pay more attention to training courses and services, travel convenience, and trainers than do those on lower income. Furthermore, the demand for training is higher for the elderly who have ICT experiences than for those with no experience. In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that policymakers should provide the elderly in Bangkok with public-access computers, free internet connection, availability of reduced-price computers, and financial support for ICT training courses.