A Qualitative Case Study Focusing on the Relationship of Biography, Education, and ICT Use of Older Adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT This qualitative biographical case study presents the case of 79-year-old Mrs. Blade and her attitude toward education and ICT (information and communication technology) use. A biographical-narrative interview with additional PCI questions was conducted. Material was analyzed using the approach of ‘reconstruction of narrative identity,’ . The case itself is portrayed with a focus on biographical, educational and learning patterns. Results indicate that biographical relevance is an individual key factor for not only educational but also lifelong decision-making. If the relationship between biography, education, and learning is put into perspective with ICT use and if no biographical link can be found, it results that there is no further engagement with ICT. This leads to the hypothesis that by linking biography, education, and learning, predictions on technology use can be made. Future research should address whether this biographical pattern represents a specific type of technology nonuse and therefore can be expanded and what other patterns exist.