Since older adults may have trouble with their memory or retaining new information, it is recommended that those who are providing computer instruction give handouts that go along with training. With the information right in front of them they find it easier to recall the instruction. It is also recommended that "cheat sheets" be given with key points for seniors to refer to. These allows instructors to suggest shortcut keys can be used to make it easier for computer use, like using the "enter" button instead of double clicking. (Puacz, 2000).
Older adults also need to have clear instructions given to them when they are getting started with learning about computers.Excessive computer jargon should be limited and basic terms need to be clearly explained (Bean, 2003)
Additional Sources:
Bean, C. (2003). Meeting the challenge: Training an aging population to use computers. Southeastern Librarian 51(3).
Bean, C & Laven, M. (2003). Adapting to seniors: Computer training for older adults. Florida Libraries. 46(2).
Palm Beach Public Library System. Mousing Around. Retrieved from: http://www.pbclibrary.org/mousing/
Paucz, J & Bradfield, C. (2000). Surf's up for seniors: Introducing older patrons to the web. Computers in Libraries. 20(8).
This is a very interesting topic, and one I am sure I have never given a single thought to. Having spent nearly all of my life using computers, handling a mouse became second nature long ago. It's foreign to think of having to learn to use a mouse -- I say that, and yet quickly remember that even now I learn new mouse tricks from time to time. (Guess what? Middle-clicking on a link opens it in a new tab! How very convenient.)
ReplyDeleteIn my academic and professional focus on web usability, I engage in much consideration of users' needs and what may need to be provided in terms of accessibility and accommodation. It's easy to recall the need to use nontechnical terms, but clearly user needs can go much deeper than that.