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Voices in older age: Digital projects Workers’ Educational Association Northern Ireland (WEA NI). The Workers’ Educational Association (WEA NI). Assist communities to organise learning Engaging & Re-engaging people in learning “When it comes to learning, no-one should be left behind”
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Voices in older age:Digital projectsWorkers’ Educational AssociationNorthern Ireland (WEA NI)
The Workers’ Educational Association (WEA NI) Assist communities to organise learning Engaging & Re-engaging people in learning “When it comes to learning, no-one should be left behind” • Inclusive learning opportunities • Learner-driven & collaborative • Flexible • Learners take ownership of their own learning journey
Older Adults & ICT • 2 projects dealing specifically with Later Life Learning • Range of Courses to develop ICT skills • Relevant to interests of learners • Expand possibilities for social interaction & communication • Important to recognise & build on learner experiences Digital Projects Unwrapped: Me, Myself and I Two Small Words Digital Storytelling/Lobbying
These projects: Based around learning photography & IT skills Undertaken by older adults – aimed at beginners Wider outcomes: using digital images to empower Share personal journeys & experiences Offer unique perspectives – insights into lives Help to highlight positive ageing Funded by The Atlantic Philanthropies
Me, Myself & I: Self-image in older age • Part 1: The first part of the project offered a Digital Photography/IT course, establishing technology as an important tool for communication. • Part 2: This was followed by an exploration of self image in older age in creative workshops challenging how the media represents older people and counteracting this with an exploration of a more positive self image as we grow older. • Part 3: The participants then explored their lives through a series of four special photographic assignments: A Self Portrait, My World, Transitions and My Dreams. • This photographic exploration has helped the participants “unwrap” their lives and shows us that even as we grow older we still have something very valid and important to say and present to the world.
My World 100960 100960
Recognition of the Caring that Older People do for their Loved OnesPhotographer: Sheila McSheffrey
Recognition of how multifaceted we can bePhotographer: Gerry McGolderick
Recognition of Ms Theresa BrownPhotographer: Emmett McSheffrey
Exploring the theme of “Recognition” in Older People Thank you for: • Care & support that older people give to others • Looking after the grandchildren • Acts of kindness • Our local heroes • Voluntary support that helps sustain community groups to continue their good work • Active participants in our society, artists, explorers, musicians, sports men and women.....
Digital Storytelling • Weaving images, music, narrative & voice together • Digital tools bring a colourful, powerful dimension to real-life stories • Express ideas, memories & experiences • Tackle issues that matter
In summary, ICT has the potential to... • Empower learners to dispel negative perceptions of ageing • Demonstrate non-traditional ways of getting your voice heard on issues of concern • Showcase the diversity of older adultsand diversity of range of issues • Give everybody a voice – not just those who are the most active advocates • Be a powerful lobbying tool • Increase engagement of older people in ICT & continue the learning journey.