Gluu Essentials digital skills training for middle-aged and older adults that makes skills stick: Results of a pre-post intervention
ABSTRACT
Background:
A number of real-world digital literacy training programs exist to support engagement with mobile devices, but these have been understudied.
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness and program acceptability of a digital skills training program among middle-aged and older adults (50+ years) and to gather participants’ recommendations for lifelong digital skills promotion.
Methods:
The Gluu Essentials digital skills training includes learning resources to support tablet use. Through pre–post surveys this study assessed mobile device proficiency, confidence getting online and in avoiding frauds and scams, frequency of engaging in online activities, program engagement, acceptability, and suggestions for continued support.
Results:
270 middle-aged and older adults completed baseline surveys and 145 (54%) of these completed follow-up surveys. Our findings indicate that mobile device proficiency increased (p < .001) while confidence was unchanged. Participants also reported going online more frequently to shop (p = .011) and access government services (p = .016) at follow-up. Program engagement varied considerably, but program acceptability was high. Participants’ recommendations included the need for ongoing programs and support/training as technology constantly changes, reducing costs for technology/internet access, and keeping learning resources simple and easy to access.
Conclusions:
The Gluu Essentials digital skills training increased mobile device proficiency and internet use for online shopping and accessing government services among middle-aged and older adults. Clinical Trial: NA
Citation
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Copyright
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