While senior learners’ technology use has increased in the last decade, proficient digital literacy is an issue of concern. Digital Literacy is the ability to find, evaluate, utilize, share, and create content using information technologies and the Internet. Providing services to seniors will be a challenge as their population increases.
While senior learners’ technology use has increased in the last decade, proficient digital literacy is an issue of concern. Digital literacy is the ability to find, evaluate, utilize, share, and create content using information technologies and the Internet. Providing services to seniors will be a challenge as their population increases. From the Administration on Aging (AoA) - Aging Statistics,
The older population—persons 65 years or older—numbered 46.2 million in 2014 (the latest year for which data is available). They represented 14.5% of the U.S. population, about one in every seven Americans… People 65+ represented 14.5% of the population in the year 2014 but are expected to grow to be 21.7% of the population by 2040. https://aoa.acl.gov/Aging_Statistics/Index.aspx
In this presentation, participants will explore Knowles’ Theory of Andragogy and its application to teaching digital literacy to seniors. Additionally, participants will discuss potential partnerships for funding, best practices for curriculum development and implementation of a digital literacy training program for senior learners.
Presentation Overview
- The Primary Topic: Serving senior learners and facilitating their skills in crossing the Digital Divide
- The Program Type: Collaborative program with medium - high level of audience interaction
- Categories: Advocacy, Digital Literacy, Programming/Services, Social Change, Training, Special Population, Outreach Services.
Learning Outcomes - Participants will be able to:
- Understand Adult Learning Theory and its application to teaching digital literacy to seniors.
- Identify misconceptions about senior digital learning, seniors’ digital learning needs and the extent of the “Digital Divide” as it affects seniors.
- Identify potential funding sources, technology partners and free curriculum resources to implement a digital literacy training program for seniors.