The Log On, Learn Programme

October 1 2008, 09:02am

Log On

Ireland Lead Organisation: Intel, Microsoft & An Post

Intel and Microsoft are among the worlds most important IT companies. An Post is a major commercial organisation providing a wide range of services which encompass postal, communication, retail and financial services

Theme:

Employment: life-long learning

Description:

IT or computer literacy is often an issue for older people who may not have had the opportunity to learn how to use a computer or discover the Internet. One effect of the widening of the digital divide is the exclusion of older people from many aspects of modern life.

The three partner organisations therefore devised a user-friendly method to engage our older population in computer training, using the principles of the one-to-one training method.

How does it work?

8-weekly training sessions take place in the school’s computer lab/room. The student tutor shares knowledge of how to use a PC and mouse, basic word processing and internet applications. The older person shares the ability to relate and to communicate, memories of culture, rituals and life experience. The 1:1 learning experience ensures the pace of learning meets the end users needs.

Log On, Learn represents a scalable, successful approach to digital inclusion for older adults. To date more than 180 schools have trained approx. 2,000 senior citizens with the same number of students participating in the training program. Older adults can embrace technology with confidence and have skills to research their health conditions, access e-government services, remain connected to family and friends.

Commitment:

By the end of the European Year 2012 Logon Learn will aim to expand the programme by a further 50% and is happy to share experiences and materials with any countries wishing to replicate this initiative.

http://www.logonlearn.ie/