Abstract

Based on Strauss and Howe's (1991) definitions of generational categories of Baby Boomer (born 1943 to 1960), Silent (born 1925 to 1942) and GI Generations (born 1901 to 1924) and characteristics of the Silent Generation, this research sought to answer three research questions. The first question addressed the relationship between Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes of older adults toward computer and Internet use. The second question asked how the age groups (Baby Boomer, Silent and GI Generations) differed on Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use. Finally, the third questions sought to ascertain if there were differences between males and females on the Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use.

Adults from the Rocky Mountain region were surveyed regarding their attitudes toward computer and Internet use, as well as their agreement or disagreement with statements pertaining to characteristics of the Silent Generation. The participants in this study were adults ages 48 to 99 who participated in activities at senior citizens centers in eight communities in Wyoming and Colorado. Respondents (N = 323) completed a survey to assess their agreement or disagreement with 15 questions regarding computer and Internet use and 15 questions based on Silent Generation characteristics as defined by Strauss and Howe (1991). Respondents were asked several demographic questions including: age, gender, education level, marital status, military affiliation, computer ownership and computer use.

Responses to questions were analyzed using the SPSS statistical package to calculate correlation, effect size and discriminant analysis. Correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between generational characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use. Effect size and discriminant analysis were used to determine the differences between age groups (Baby Boomer, Silent and GI Generations) and gender (males and females) on Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use.

Results of correlation analysis indicated a moderately negative correlation between Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use for members of the Silent Generation age group. There was a low negative correlation between Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use for members of both the Baby Boomer Generation and members of the GI Generation.

Based on discriminant analysis, respondents were correctly classified in their respective age groups (Baby Boomer, Silent and GI Generation) 69.60 percent of the time. Respondents were correctly classified using discriminant analysis as male or female 73.60 percent of the time. Effect size calculations showed differences between the age groups but no differences based on gender.

Members of the Baby Boomer generation were more positive about computer and Internet use than members of the Silent Generation and members of the GI Generation. There was no difference between males and females on Silent Generation characteristics and attitudes toward computer and Internet use.