E-learning and elder people: Barriers and benefits

Health Information Literacy and the Elderly: Has the Internet Had an Impact?

“…The strongest predictors were ethnicity, fluid intelligence, and computer anxiety. Ethnicity was perhaps the least expected predictor; however, unlike the younger and middle aged (40)(41)(42)(43)(44)(45)(46)(47)(48)(49)(50)(51)(52)(53)(54)(55)(56)(57)(58)(59) groups, the older (60-91) group was mostly (81%) white; 55 consequently, ethnicity may not be as much of a factor among this group.…”

“…39 Various studies have revealed unequivocally that not only is mere access not enough to create competent computer users, but also that training should be tailored to the elderly. [40][41][42][43] Bakaev et al found two conditions that must be met in order for seniors to engage technology:…”

“…44 In their discussion of electronic personal health records, which have recently emerged as tools to manage one's often scattered health records in the United States healthcare system, Kim et al note that even though participants were provided with computers, Internet access, and personal assistance, participation rate was relatively disappointing. Almost half used the system on only one day.…”

Cognitive-Based E-Learning Design for Older Adults

“…According to Berners-Lee et al (2001), the power of the Internet, and thus Internet-based activities such as e-learning, lies with its universality. In today's transition to an information society, new methods of learning emerge and the provision for equal access for all individuals is imperative (Bakaev et al 2008). Nevertheless, and despite the fact that information and communication technologies can have an important influence on the life of the elderly (Vandebosch et al 2005), it appears that older adults lag as far as digital skills, Internet access, and engagement in online activities (e-learning, etc.)…”

“…Online learning can play an important role in helping older adults become integrated with the rest of society and, as they do, their use of e-learning will gradually increase (Githens 2007). The key conditions for older adults to engage with ICTs, and thus consent to e-learning, may be identified as having some practical computer skills that benefit their lifestyles and overcoming the belief that computers are too complex and not for the elderly (Bakaev et al 2008). This can be done by acquiring basic ICT knowledge and gaining self-confidence.…”