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Make the Connection

Learn how to address the physical and cognitive effects of aging through adaptive technology and training techniques. Join our Getting Started Classes to become comfortable using a computer and email. Limited spots available, inquire today!

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Make the Connection

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  1. Make the Connection • Technology Training for the Older Generation • Carol Bean • Technology Training Consultant • beanworks@gmail.com

  2. The Problem • The physical effects of aging interfere with the ability to interact with technology • The cognitive effects of aging interfere with the ability to learn new technology

  3. Physical Effects of Aging • Cataracts and declining vision • Decreased hearing and problems with hearing aids • Arthritis • Tremors • Neural Noise • Increased sensitivity to cold

  4. Cognitive Effects of Aging • Increased distractibility • Neural noise • Cognitive slowing

  5. The Solution • Some physical effects can be addressed with adaptive technology (arthritis, tremors, vision) • Some physical effects can be addressed with adaptive training techniques (hearing, vision, comfort) • Cognitive effects can be addressed with adaptive training techniques

  6. The Solution North County Regional Library’s approach:Mousing tutorialBeginning Computer Classes (Getting Started Series)

  7. Mousing Around Tutorial • Assumes nothing • Progressive • Includes instruction on common experiences with a computer • Includes instruction on physical problems using a mouse. • Fun to use

  8. Getting Started Classes • Five classes • Designed to get older adults comfortable on the computer • Owning a computer is not required • Web-based

  9. Getting Started Classes

  10. Getting Started Classes Class One: Mousing Around

  11. Getting Started Classes Class Two: The Browser

  12. Getting Started Classes Class Three: Web Forms

  13. Getting Started Classes Class Four: Web E-Mail

  14. Getting Started Classes Class Five: Web E-Mail

  15. Getting Started Classes Although these classes have a specific track and goal, the principles can be transferred to any technology training program

  16. Getting Started Classes • Classes are small and trainer intensive (1:3) so sufficient time can be given to each student as needed. This keeps class time down. • Class time is limited to ~1 hour, which is the outer limit of learning time for older adults.

  17. Getting Started Classes • Classes are offered in the morning, which is the best time of day for learning for most older adults • Classes are no more than 3 days apart to minimize the loss of newly learned skills and material

  18. Getting Started Classes • Practice exercises are required between classes to minimize the loss of newly learned skills. • Content is spread to multiple (5) classes to minimize the amount of new concepts and skills that must be learned at each session

  19. Getting Started Classes • Classes teach only what is necessary to do what they want to do (in this case, e-mail). • Class instruction uses lots of repetition • Classes use simple, step by step, instructions

  20. Getting Started Classes • Exercises use simple, discrete, numbered steps, which repeat what was learned in the previous class. • Class and exercise handouts use large, labeled graphics, and a larger, easy to read font.

  21. Getting Started Classes • Trainers speak slowly, with clear enunciation. • Trainers use clear, unambiguous terms. • Students are encouraged and validated frequently, to boost their self-confidence

  22. Getting Started Classes • Prospective students are interviewed by the trainers to be sure they belong in the classes, so everyone is at the same level. • Prospective students are interviewed by the trainers to be sure they are motivated enough to attend all classes and do all the exercises.

  23. Outcomes • <5% drop out (quit) • <3% retake the course • >99% positive response/comments

  24. Lessons Learned • There will always be some that fall through the cracks no matter what you do: • Insufficient motivation • Intervening life events • Cognitive impairment • Techniques used with this group also work well with other groups.

  25. Resources Mousing Around Online Tutorial • English: http://www.pbclibrary.org/mousing/ • Spanish: http://www.pbclibrary.org/raton/ • Creole: http://www.pbclibrary.org/souri/

  26. Resources • Technology training for the older population, (http://web1.squidoo.com/trainable) Contains a summary, web resources, and short bibliography. • Class materials used at North County Regional Library, (http://www.esnips.com/user/ncrlab) • BeanWorks (training tips), (http://beanworks.wordpress.com/tag/training/)

  27. Resources • Connecting the Disconnected: How Does It Feel?(Part 1) • Connecting the Disconnected: How Does It Feel?(Part 2) http://www.grouper.com/members/2229744

  28. Contact Carol Bean beanworks@gmail.com beanworks.wordpress.com

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