Qualitative evaluation of a sustained computer and Internet use promotion program for low-income seniors

Background: IL BTOP is a demonstration project to promote sustained computer and Internet use among low-income seniors and people with disabilities living in public housings and surrounding neighborhoods in northern Illinois. One of long-terms goals of the project is to improve wellbeing of program participants by helping them engage in social networking and acquire health information through the Internet. IL BTOP provides computer and Internet skills training and gives free laptop computers to program graduates. Community program managers (CPMs) deliver the training program and assist program graduates with computer and Internet use afterwards. Objective: The objectives of this study are to: discover unforeseen factors that might affect program implementation and effectiveness; identify barriers to sustained computer and Internet use among low-income seniors; and describe challenges for CPMs in maintaining the program. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in person with program graduates; and over the phone with CPMs. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative data analysis software. Results: Many graduates reported accessing the Internet using smart phones, e-readers, or tablets. Lack of broadband access in individual apartments, computer malfunction, and CPMs' inability to resolve technical problems were identified as barriers or challenges. Discussion: Program effectiveness may be properly assessed when unforeseen problems, barriers, and challenges are fully understood. This study indicates potential problems in the validity of program assumptions (i.e., promotion of Internet use using computers) and unexpected barriers and challenges. Program planners and stakeholders should consider these issues to improve ongoing programs or in developing future programs.