Abstract:
To study the digital divide among Thai journalists comparing across types of newspaper and job categories. Samples of study are 180 newsmen working in Bangkok metropolitan and nearby areas. Survey research was conducted using questionnaires and in-depth interview in gathering research data. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (t-test, ANOVA, and Pearsons r) were employed to analyze data and test hypothesis with SPSS program. Findings demonstrate that Thai journalists possess moderate efficiency in English language and internet utilization skills, but low computer skill. In addition, they have information technology and digital knowledge in moderate level and attitude regarding IT is much positive. Results from the hypothesis testing show evidence of digital divide as follows: 1. Thai journalists who work in qualitative - oriented newspaper have higher English skill than those who are employees of mixed qualitative-quantitative type newspapers. 2. Thai journalists who cover information technology (IT) news have higher computer and internet skills and IT practices than journalists who cover other hard news. 3. English language skill, computer skill, internet skill, IT knowledge, IT attitude, and IT practices of Thai journalists are dependent on their working experience, educational level, income level, and job position. 4. English language skill, computer skill, internet skill of Thai journalists are related to their IT knowledge level and IT practice.