A common stereotype is that older people are unable to keep pace with digital changes in society and struggle to learn the skills they need to stay relevant. Research from the University of Eastern Finland suggests that learning such skills is a complex process that is significantly affected by the personal needs and motives of the individual, as well as any institutional, societal, and learning situation related factors.

“Older people’s learning of digital skills needs to be examined holistically so that support measures can be planned and implemented while acknowledging sociocultural contexts, environments, learning settings and instruction practices,” the researchers explain.

Learning new skills

The researchers believe that it’s important to factor in the cultural context in order to ensure that sustainable and effective support is offered in relation to digital skills. For instance, it was particularly important for opportunities to learn to be both easy-to-access and also permanent, with these opportunities taking into account the situation and life circles of older participants.

“When teaching digital skills, instructors should integrate older people’s needs, values and wishes in the instructional content and pedagogy,” the researchers explain.

Similarly, they believe it’s also important to explore the attitudes of older people to digital skills training, as these will play a crucial role in their willingness to participate. The better this understanding is, the more aligned training can be to the needs and expectations of older participants.

“Many older adults use digital technology on a daily basis. The views of all citizens, including older people, could be used to a much greater extent in business development,” the researchers conclude.