Investigating the Role of Internet Self-Efficacy in the Elderly's Learning of ICT in Hong Kong, China: A Two-Part Study

This paper discusses the role of Internet self-efficacy and outcome expectations in the elderly's usage of the Internet through a two-part study. The researchers conducted this study by collaborating with three non-government organizations (NGOs) for which funding was received from one government unit and a large local charitable organization. A new theoretical model was developed to examine the influence of Internet self-efficacy and outcome expectations on usage intention and perceived user competence. Behavioral modeling training courses were offered to mature adults aged 50 and above in two separate studies over a year. Questionnaire surveys and cognitive knowledge assessments were conducted. In general, the findings in the two studies validated the impacts of Internet self-efficacy and outcome expectations on usage intention. Limitations and implications of this study are discussed.