Model Answer Unit 4, Activity 4.1
This is a model answer. You might have developed different ideas.
What can be the barriers to using digital tools for senior learners?
Senior learners often do not see the value and personal relevance of being online. They need to develop new skills in using digital tools and sometimes they lack confidence and/or digital equipment. Online safety is often a particular concern amongst people with dementia as can age-related physical barriers.
What effects can digital tools have on the health and wellbeing of senior learners?
Digital tools can provide access to services. They can be a way to get in touch with family and friends. Being able to use digital tools can give senior learners more confidence and this enhances their life and wellbeing. Learning new skills can also be a way to connect with other people and may reduce loneliness.
How can digital skills training be most effective for senior learners?
It is best to find a hook which motivates older people to see the personal benefits of going online. Top tips to achieve this are to have a conversation with them to find out what support they need, and then tailor your support accordingly. You may need to be patient, avoid technical jargon, and use a pace of learning that is comfortable for your learner and includes a lot of revision. Allowing them to take the lead in a session helps them to ask questions and learn at their own pace. Using their own device as the technology, where appropriate, allows them to familiarise themselves with their digital equipment. For this, you need to have a working knowledge of various digital technologies or the ability and interest to find out more about other technologies in order to find solutions. It may help to simplify and personalise the way people with dementia access technology, such as removing any superfluous icons, tiles etc. and adapting the remaining ones so that there is a simple association between the icon and an activity.
It is important to involve older people in shaping the design of digital services and learning sessions and to share the benefits and successes of learning new digital skills. Reassuring them that they will not do any damage by trying something and encouraging them to try will help them to develop confidence. If you make it a habit of gathering feedback from senior learners throughout the project, you can also make changes if needed.
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