Meeting Older Adults Learning Needs When Using Information Technologies.

N

12

Adult Education; Adult Learning; Age Differences; Aging (Individuals); Cognitive Style; Constructivism (Learning); Educational Needs; Educational Policy; Educational Research; Educational Technology; Foreign Countries; Guidelines; Information Technology; Learning Processes; Lifelong Learning; Needs Assessment; Older Adults; Policy Formation; Technology Education

As in other countries, older adults in Australia could benefit from acquiring information technology (IT) skills in many ways, including improved access to information on health issues and development of the skills needed for employment in high-demand IT-related occupations. The research on adult learning and the problems faced by many older adults when using IT suggests several strategies for meeting the learning needs of older adults seeking to learn about and use IT. Knowles' work on how adults learn can provide insight on how older adults learn. Designers of workstations to be used by older learners using IT should be aware of age-related differences in older adults' cognitive function. Having younger students assist older people with IT can be a rewarding experience for both groups. Older adults tend to have had little exposure to the constructivist learning experiences that promote development of the problem-solving and independent learning skills needed to engage in lifelong learning. The introduction of digital television into the home is an opportunity for Australia to address this problem at the national level. This technology will make it possible to customize materials so that they can be presented to older adults in meaningful and practical ways. (Contains 12 references.) (MN)

2001

ED446267