Since its public introduction approximately 25 years ago, the internet has revolutionised the way the majority of young people and adults interact, search for information and conduct their lives. Younger generations have embraced social networking in a huge way, while older adults rely very heavily on the internet for such everyday needs as online shopping, banking, checking schedules, booking tickets, obtaining information and communicating via email and skype.
How sad, then, to see that only a third of elderly people have ever been online. The latest report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) data show that just 33% of over-75s have ever browsed the internet.
The figures show that 7.1 million adults in the UK have never been online – 45% of whom are over the age of 75.
In contrast, almost all 16 to 24-year-olds have connected to the internet.
Beginners' Courses in Haddenham
If your partner is someone who has never explored the internet, or you have a relative, friend or neighbour in Haddenham who wouldn't even know how to switch a computer or tablet on, you may be interested to know that introductory courses are available in the village. Two options are on offer, both free of charge:
Option 1: Community Library
Short one-to-one sessions are offered to beginners looking to use the Community Library computers or to understand how tablet computers and smartphones work. These sessions usually take place on Fridays – please ask at the Library reception for more details, and to book your place
Option 2: U3A Course at the Community Junior School
Haddenham U3A is currently offering a series of workshops in the splendid new IT suite at the Community Junior School. These workshops are specifically designed for:
- total beginners
- those who are relatively unfamiliar with computers and tablets
- those lacking confidence with the technology
The course of four workshops is running every Wednesday afternoon in March 2014, from 4pm-5.30pm, and will cover a broad range of topics so that participants will acquire the skills to write emails, search the internet, send and view photographs, keep in touch with friends and relatives and much more. The aim is to equip relative beginners to use various software applications and mobile apps and related technologies totally unaided.
If you'd like to know more, please contact U3A Chairman, Carol Mason: Tel: 01844 292236 Email: mason.carol16@gmail.com
