Investigation of the adaptation of older adults to online learning and artificial intelligence

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the adaptation of older adults, to online learning and artificial intelligence.

Material and methods

210 older adults (109 women; 101 men) aged 65 and over, were included. Hodkinson Mental Test, Online Learning Readiness Scale (OLRS) and Artificial Intelligence Anxiety Scale (AIAS) were used in evaluation. Older adults with 6 score and above in Hodkinson Mental Test, in which their cognitive level was evaluated, were included. Older adults were stratified according to their gender and age (Group I: 65–70 years; Group II: 71–75 years; Group III: 76 years and over).

Results

In comparison analysis between age groups, there was a significant difference in the total score and all subdimensions of OLRS in favor of Group I (p < 0.05), and in the total score and all subdimensions of AIAS (p < 0.05). When analyzed according to gender, “The computer/Internet self-efficacy” subdimension of OLRS was significantly higher in male older adults (p < 0.05). “Learning” subdimension of AIAS was significantly higher in female older adults (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

With increasing age in older adults, the readiness for online learning decreases and the level of artificial intelligence anxiety increases. There is no difference between male and female older adults in the readiness for online learning and artificial intelligence anxiety levels, and it is moderate in both genders. In this context, we think that information about online and artificial intelligence applications for older adults would be beneficial.