ALONE, Intergenerational, Digital Champion Programme. The Hi Digital: Digital

Description

The Digital Champion Intergenerational training follows a train the trainer approach and consists of:

Self-directed e-learning: (Approximately 1.5 hours to complete).

The eLearning covers understanding the older persons and their unique set of circumstances. We look at the communication skills required as a Digital Champion and some of the challenges older persons can face as they age. The Hi Digital platform is introduced.

Facilitated interactive session: in-person (2 hours).

The second part of the training takes place 2 weeks after the e-learning has been completed. This session is more practical; we have role plays, activities and student have put the learning content into practice and ask questions.

We run though the Digital Skills Checklist which is used by Digital Champions to gauge what the learner knows already and where they need support. The checklist aligns to the Hi Digital website modules, so the Digital Champion can go there to learn more.

Facilitating the Digital Skills workshops/classes:

Within our resource guide to the school TY coordinator or organisational contact, we share information about different approaches to facilitating support to the older persons i.e. formal programme of ‘classes,’ workshop, drop-in support. The format of the delivery depends on several factors, including the participating schools and organisations logistic requirements and wishes e.g. specific learning topics.

ALONE staff aim to attend the initial classes to support and see the project in action, it can be great fun!

Follow up and evaluation:

Qualitative and Quantitative data is collected through:

Learner/Participant Survey’s

Digital Champion Survey’s

On site discussions/interviews

Follow up email and phone discussions

Through surveys we have a better understanding if the learners’ needs have been met alongside some reflections from both Digital Champions and learner on their experience.

Example: Beaufort College, Navan, Co. Meath

In December 2023, sixty students from Beaufort College received Hi Digital: Digital Champion Intergenerational Training.

Following the training, Beaufort College connected with Milbury Nursing Home on Commons Road in Navan. Over a three-week period, two groups of Transition Year (TY) students visited the nursing home. The students were divided into small groups and assigned to different areas within the nursing home, under the supervision of the Transition Year Coordinator and the Nursing Home Activities Coordinator.

Each small group of students paired with small groups of residents. Initial interactions included icebreakers initiated by the students and the sharing of stories and life experiences from both parties.

Once everyone felt comfortable, the students began supporting the residents. Activities ranged from showing a resident how to send photos to a family member via WhatsApp to explaining what ‘apps’ are, using the example of the RIP app.

Feedback:

“In conclusion 60 TY students took part in the digital champion training all participated not only with digital technology, but engagement of various activities made a real difference to the lives of more than fifty/sixty residence of Millbury nursing home and their families and the wider community. It was a real fun experience for everyone involved. I believe we all grew, students, staff, residence and myself from the many activities that we took part in over the three weeks.’

Mr Alan McNally, TY Tutor 23/24

“It was heartwarming to see the young people in the nursing home, the residents really enjoyed their presence. Initially the students lacked confidence communicating with the residents, however, that did not last long, some of the residents now know how to use what’s app, which is great as they have grandchildren and love to receive and send photographs, we look forward to engaging with Beaufort College’s new transition year students.”

Rowena Cueto, Person in Charge, Millbury Nursing Home.

84% of the students agreed that the training from ALONE ‘equipped them to teach digital skills to older people’

85% of students agreed that the training ‘made the participant (older person) more confident and happier online”

Aim of Initiative

1. Create Digital Champions: to support older adults use their device and go online.

2. Enhance Digital Literacy: Equip older adults with the digital skills needed to confidently use their devices and access online services.

3. Promote Intergenerational Learning: Foster connections and mutual learning opportunities between younger and older generations.

4. Bridge the Digital Divide: Reduce the gap in digital literacy between generations, ensuring that older adults are not left behind in an increasingly digital world.

5. Empower Young People: Provide students with valuable teaching and mentoring experience, enhancing their own digital skills and community involvement.

Who is it aimed at

Older Adults: Improve digital literacy and independence.

Students: Gain facilitation experience and social responsibility.

Educational Institutions: Enhance curriculum with community service.

Community Organisations: Expand support and resource capacity.

Families: Benefit from the increased digital competence of older family members.

Wider Community: Strengthen intergenerational bonds and social cohesion.

By addressing the needs and interests of these groups, the Intergenerational Digital Champion program creates a comprehensive support system that bridges generational gaps and fosters a more connected and inclusive community.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Comprehensive Training and PreparationFor Students : Provide thorough training on digital skills, effective communication, and teaching techniques tailored to the needs of older people. Students need to understand not only the technology but also the best practices for engaging with older generations, including patience, empathy, and clear communication

   For Older People: Assess the specific needs and digital proficiency levels of older people to create customised learning plans. Ensure the learning materials are clear, accessible, and relevant to their daily lives, focusing on practical applications such as using smartphones, social media, email, and video calls

   Through our provision of the inter-generational digital training, it was clear that the connection and social engagement approach of the one-to-one digital supports is more effective than a group class led environment for an older person.

2. Strong Support System and ResourcesAccess to Technology: (ALONE can provide access to tablets for the duration of the training). Ensure older adults have access to the necessary devices (smartphones, tablets, computers) and internet connectivity. Provide resources like easy-to-follow guides, instructional videos, and troubleshooting support.

   Ongoing Support: The ALONE coordinator reaches out at the beginning of each month to check on the progress of the digital skills classes and to determine if the organisations or schools need additional support.

3. Community and Intergenerational EngagementBuilding Relationships: Encourage strong, meaningful relationships between students and older people through regular, consistent interaction. Encourage mutual respect and understanding by organising social events, collaborative projects that allow for shared learning and good relations.

   Feedback and Analysis : Regularly evaluate the program’s effectiveness and make necessary adjustments based on this feedback to ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of participants and remains engaging and effective.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Varying Levels of Digital Proficiency and Learning PacesIt can be challenging to create a one-size-fits-all curriculum and ensure that all participants are engaged and progressing. (relevant to school students & OP)
2. Engagement and MotivationCommitment needed from schools/organisations/students to maintain and motivate and engage older people. Older people might feel overwhelmed or discouraged by the pace of learning.

   Transportation; providing transport for older people or students/young people to get to venue.

3. Scheduling Conflicts and FlexibilityStudents/young people have busy academic timetables making it challenging to find extended periods to run digital support classes at a time that is conducive to optimal learning times for older adults.

   Academic timetable for students only allows certain periods where classes can be allocated

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Enhanced Digital Literacy Among Older AdultsIncreased Confidence and Independence for older people
   Improved Access to Information, Online Services and
   Engage in lifelong learning opportunities
2. Intergenerational Bonding and Community BuildingStrengthened Relationships between students/young people and older people.
   Community Engagement, opportunity to be part of an impactful social initiative supporting local communities.
3. Personal Growth and Skill Development for Students/Young PeopleLearning and strengthening of facilitation, communication, and leadership skills.
   Social Responsibility and Empathy: students/young people gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by older adults and the importance of community services whilst having fun!