Staying connected and Improving Digital Skills

Description

The “Staying Connected and Improving Digital Skills” initiative is a comprehensive course aimed at reducing the digital divide and enhancing digital literacy, particularly among individuals aged 55 and above. Over 600 learners have successfully completed the course, the course is conducted over six weeks with two hours per week. The courses are facilitated in safe and comfortable environments, such as libraries and Further Education and Training Centres across Laois and Offaly.
The initiative focuses on empowering learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to stay connected with the outside world using mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. It begins with learner needs assessments to customise the course content and ensure its relevance to the participants’ specific requirements.
To keep the course content up to date and aligned with evolving technology trends, the initiative emphasises continuous monitoring of developments and incorporates the latest apps, tools, and digital resources. Regular reviews and updates are conducted to maintain accuracy and freshness, incorporating new information and making adjustments based on learner feedback and emerging trends.
Engagement with learners is a priority in the initiative, encouraging ongoing communication and feedback sessions. Learners have the opportunity to express their challenges, provide suggestions for improvement, and share their experiences. This feedback is used to enhance the learning experience and ensure that the course content remains tailored to their needs.
Overall, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by providing a safe and supportive learning environment where participants can build confidence in using technology, stay connected with friends and family, access online information and resources, and improve their digital skills. By empowering older individuals with digital literacy, the initiative enables them to actively participate in the digital world and reduce disparities caused by the digital divide.

Aim of Initiative

The aim of this initiative is to empower individuals aged 55 and above with the necessary knowledge and skills to stay connected with the outside world and improve their digital literacy. The initiative recognises the importance of technology in today’s digital age and aims to bridge the digital divide by providing comprehensive training and support. The initiative aims to build confidence in utilising technology, facilitate connections with friends and family worldwide, access online information and resources, and enhance digital skills. Ultimately, the goal is to empower older individuals to navigate the digital world with confidence, independence, and a sense of connectivity.

Who is it aimed at

This course is aimed at individuals aged 55 and above. It is designed to cater specifically to the needs and challenges faced by this age group in terms of staying connected with the outside world and improving their digital skills.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Increased learner confidence: The initiative aims to significantly boost learners’ confidence in using technology, specifically mobile devices, to stay connected with the outside world. Learners should feel comfortable navigating their devices, using various communication tools, accessing online resources, and engaging in digital activities.
2. Improved digital skills: Learners should acquire practical digital skills that allow them to effectively utilise mobile devices for communication, information gathering, online transactions, and accessing digital resources. These skills should be applicable to their daily lives and enable them to participate fully in the digital age.
3. To effectively ensure that the course content remains relevant and up to date with the needs of the learners.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Gaining learner confidence: One of the significant challenges was gaining the confidence of learners to participate in the course, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Older individuals may have been hesitant or apprehensive about embracing technology or attending in-person sessions. Overcoming this challenge required effective communication and reassurance about the safety measures in place, the benefits of the course, and the supportive learning environment provided.
2. Keeping content relevant and up to date: With technology evolving rapidly, it is crucial to keep the course content up to date. This requires staying informed about the latest technology trends, digital resources, and online platforms relevant to the target audience. Regular content reviews and updates were necessary to ensure that the learners received the most relevant and practical information.
3. Reaching the target audience: Reaching and engaging the target audience, particularly those who may be digitally disconnected, posed a challenge. Effective outreach strategies were necessary to raise awareness of the course and its benefits. Collaborations with the libraries, community organisations and local networks played a crucial role in reaching and encouraging participation from the intended audience.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Enabling the learner to build confidence with their device: We understand that using new technology can sometimes be intimidating. That’s why we focus on building the learners confidence in using their mobile device.

2. Improved digital literacy: This course enhances the learner’s digital literacy skills, allowing them to understand and effectively use technology-related terms, concepts, and functions. They gain a solid foundation in using mobile devices and accessing online resources.
3. Strengthened independence: As the learner gains confidence in using technology, they become more self-reliant in various aspects of their life. Whether it’s staying updated with current events, managing personal tasks online, or accessing library resources, they begin to feel empowered to take control of their digital experiences which as a result enhances their independence.