Published on Thursday, 22 February 2024 at 9:35:08 AM
A successful intergenerational technology mentor program has returned for another round of workshops aimed at increasing the digital literacy and confidence of participants.
Shire of Dardanup President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the Digital Connection Program, launched last November, provides a supportive environment for senior members of the community to enhance their digital literacy skills through mentoring from Eaton Community College students.
Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the program was supported by the Department of Communities, with the first round of workshops offering one-on-one mentoring sessions open to participants aged 65-plus.
“Program participants were able to ask all the questions they had around using technology such as their mobile phones, laptops or even software like Microsoft. They could do so in a supportive environment and learnt from the next generation of tech-savvy students,” Cr Gardiner said.
“The feedback from both participants and mentors showed that the program creates a sense of connection for two different generations that can really learn from each other.
“The Shire is excited to again provide this opportunity for the next five weeks and look forward to a third component of the Digital Connection Program, which will launch in May and feature larger workshops presented by local technology company, IT Blackspot.”
Feedback from the one-on-one Tech Mentor Sessions:
“Great to learn all the little tricks, love the interaction with the younger people and everyone else too. This is a much better program than anything I’ve come across before. Other computer and IT programs I’ve attended have been more focused on one topic rather than helping me find answers for specific questions and problems I have. Or I’ve been told to ask my grandchildren. But my grandchildren don’t live here.” Wendy.
“The students that have been helping me are very polite, informative, and likable. They are very good, it’s a great program and it is held in a perfect venue. I’m helped more and more every week.” Marlene.
Round two of the Digital Connections Program started today, 20 February and will be held at the Eaton Sports Pavilion weekly from 11.20am-12.20pm until Tuesday, 26 March. Participants are invited to partner with a student mentor to ask those tricky tech-related questions and learn more about using mobile phones and devices.
Round three of the Digital Connection Program will launch on 6 May and features larger workshops presented by local technology company, IT Blackspot. The IT Blackspot Workshops will be held at venues throughout the Shire of Dardanup including Bethanie Village, the new Shire of Dardanup Administration and Community Building and the Burekup and Dardanup Halls.
Individuals are invited to register for one or all of the Digital Connection Programs by visiting www.dardanup.wa.gov.au/digital-connections-program or by contacting our friendly Customer Service Team on (08) 9724 000 or email records@dardanup.wa.gov.au
Photo caption: The Shire of Dardanup’s Digital Connection Program participants (from left) Eaton Community College Student Shania Curtin with John Owen-Tuckerson and Sherron Spragg.
Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.
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