DIGITAL DIVIDE

an age perspective

THE

YoungerGeneration OlderGenera

tion

TEC

HN

OLO

GY

Younger Generations have a easier time using and learning

technology than the Older Generations.

“DUH”COMMON SENSE

Why?(this is the important question)

CONFIDENCEEducation • Experience • Desire

Older vs. Younger Generation

•Technology is foreign to older

•Multi-tasking

•Instant gratification

•Fear

•The unknown

•Interest in technology

•Discovery based learning

Older vs. Younger Generation

How often are older adults going online?

“Computer use among older adults in a naturally occurring retirement community”

By: Brian D. Carpenter & Sarah Buday

Published in ScienceDirect

From 2000 – 2004: Access increased by 47% for people over the age of 65

In 2003: 20% of older adults have gone online compared to 65% of younger adults

Statistics:

Participants

Methods

Questionnaire

Background:

Demographic Results

Health Results

1.) Among NORC residents, who is currently using a computer and what differentiates

them from non-users?

2.) Among computer users, what do they use the computer for?

3.) Among non-users, what are the barriers to use? And among users, what prevents them from using the

computer as much as they would like?”

•Understanding their fears.

•Understanding their needs and interests.

•Motivating them.

•Providing resources and training.

•Involving the younger generation.

Strategies for seniors

•Understanding the mindset of digital native.

•Providing training for teachers.

•Supplying appropriate resources in the classroom.

•Discussions boards, forums and resources for teachers.

Strategies for educators

Thank You.