Age & Interface: Equipping Older Adults with Technological Tools
OBJECTIVE
In today’s age, it is crucial to be aware of one’s surroundings,
updated with the latest news, improving knowledge and remain socially connected. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic made us realize that access to a steady internet is a necessity and not a luxury.
The outcomes are dedicated to empowering the technological depressed individuals affected by computer illiteracy, computer anxiety and the digital divide by making information accessible, consumable and comprehensible. The teaching toolkits are created as per the Inclusive Design principles, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG 2.0) and human-centred design strategies for older adults.
OUTCOME
The project outcome consists of two major teaching toolkits
that are explained below -
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1. Part 1: Beginner's Handbook
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This is a guidebook available online, free of cost and easily accessible via any device. An audio version is available on the
web-based tutorial platform (refer 'Pt-1 HANDBOOK' section).
Accessing the beginner's handbook through Issuu
A glimpse of the beginner's handbook
Sample pages from the beginner's handbook
2. Part 2: Web-based Tutorial Platform
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The website is created to tutor older adults on carrying out various operations of the smart devices. Each task is documented through screenshots in digital screens through a step-by-step process. The tasks were shortlisted based on the survey results, work experience at TechServeTo and the ideologies of the Technological Acceptance Model (refer methodology).
Accessing the web-based tutorial platform
Walkthrough of the web-based tutorial platform
An Interface from the web-based tutorial platform tutoring on
'How to check weather and temperature'
GLOSSARY
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Computer Anxiety - Refers to the fear and apprehension experienced by an individual while using or having the thought of using a computer. The term is coined by Maurer in 1994.
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Digital Divide - Refers to the segregation between individuals who have access to the internet, computers and technology in contrast to individuals who do not have such benefits. This could be caused by economic, social and educational privileges.​
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Digital Literacy - Refers to the ability to use, operate and have knowledge of digital tools. It refers to the life skills individuals need and function in a community where accessing information and communication network is a necessity via digital technologies like new media tools, mobile phones etc.