This study made important empirical and theoretical contributions
to studies on aging and technology. First of all, it applied the
TAM model to examine Internet use behaviors among the older
population in a developing country, which has not been widely explored
in the literature. Secondly, it added two variables, subjective
norm and facilitating conditions, into the TAM model, so that we
can have better understanding on how Internet use behaviors
among Chinese older adults are influenced by social norms, and
by some environmental barriers such as the lack of access, training
and technical support. Thirdly, this study treats the older population
as a diverse group. There might be significant variations within
the older population in their Internet use (Czaja & Sharit, 1998;
Kaiser Family Foundation, 2005; Morris, Goodman, & Brading,
2007). This study made contributions to the knowledge in this area
by examining whether the effect of TAM factors on Internet use
might be moderated by age and gender of the older adults. The contemporary China, Internet learning represents a new opportunity
for them to achieve personal growth.