Seniors on the 'Net

Instructor: Pam Alger

Seniors on the 'Net

As we introduce more and more technology into our libraries, seniors -- who are among our most committed patrons -- often feel left out of the Technological Revolution. Frustration sometimes even leads them to feel actively hostile about how we are "depersonalizing" their library. Yet the fastest growing group of computer and Internet users are adults over the age of 50. Once on the Internet, seniors are among its most enthusiastic supporters.

Lack of experience with technology as well as visual and motor limitations are among the roadblocks that keep many seniors off the "Information Superhighway." Libraries -- the People's Universities -- can help seniors get up to speed on the Internet.

Workshop Description: In this all-day hands-on workshop you will learn strategies for creating an Internet program for seniors. You will learn how to develop a program that matches the needs of your senior patrons, how to evaluate Web sites for seniors, and how to adapt your technology and training strategies to meet the needs of your senior population. You will explore and evaluate Internet resources of particular interest to seniors.

Highlights: Using hands-on exercises, discussion, and a packet of handouts, this workshop will cover the following topics:

• Special considerations for seniors
  • Assessing your senior community
  • Accessibility and adaptation
  • Training hints
  • Guidelines for evaluating Web sites for seniors
• Seniors on the 'Net
  • Senior communities
  • Senior organizations
• Topics of special interest to seniors
  • Government and law resources
  • Consumer affairs
  • Travel
• Self-directed Internet tutorials
• Using resources on the Web to provide Web-based Internet learning programs

Prerequisites:

• comfortable using a mouse
• able to navigate the Web using URLs, browser menus, and toolbars
• familiar with basic Web terminology

Please Note: There is a $50.00 fee for this workshop. InFoPeople does not provide parking passes, lunch or refreshments.

Check-in: 8:30 to 9 AM Instruction: 9 AM to 4:30 PM