A scale for measuring tourists’ technological competence

Purpose Tourists must possess technological competence, as technology becomes increasingly ubiquitous in travel. However, few studies have investigated tourists’ technological competence (TTC). Thus, this study aims to develop a valid and reliable scale for measuring TTC. Design/methodology/approach In the development of the scale, the authors first reviewed the literature and consulted experts to formulate an initial set of items. The items were then reduced using exploratory factor analysis, and the measures were validated through confirmatory factor analysis. Two distinct sets of data were collected to develop and validate the TTC scale. Findings The final scale has 21 items and five factors: searching and booking for travel information online, using self-service systems, operating VR/AR technologies, using apps for travel and using technology at tourist destination. After analyzing the reliability, construct validity, criterion-related validity and known-group validity, the TTC scale has been established as a measurement tool with acceptable reliability and validity. Originality/value The authors proposed the concept of technological competence in tourists and developed a scale to measure it. In addition to filling research gaps, understanding the items relating to TTC can help promote tourism education in the digital and technological age and provide reference for those developing technological services at tourist destinations.