|
 |
|
Digital literacy is a priority in addressing the digital divide. The development of widespread digital literacy is made possible through enhanced access to technology and through the availability of customised learning methods targeting specific audiences in society. The Ministry for Investment, Industry and IT fully conscious of the ways to reduce the digital divide. The helloIT Programme and its stream of initiatives are tangible proof of the Ministry’s commitment to continue addressing the divide between those that have access to technology and those that do not; and between those that have mastered the skill to use the technology and those that did not.
An important target group for the helloIT progrmme the individuals over the age of 60. There is the danger that older people have limited access to important sources of information and services on the Internet (such as online banking), and to other useful facilities such as word processing. This is often due to their lack of confidence in their abilities to handle modern media. Older members of the community need special attention in order to master the skills required to use new media as part of their daily lives and thus expand their forms of communication. The consequence of this is that special measures are needed if they are to be convinced to use the new media and experience up-skilling in their ICT skills.
The basic ICT Awareness Course – myWeb – is a tangible special measure that aims to nurture the confidence needed to use basic forms of technology. The course content is geared towards novices covering IT fundamentals, basic computer applications, the Internet and email. This year, the content has been revamped in a richer text and graphical format and includes contemporary topics such as Internet safety and security, the Government portal and a number of the e-Government services. The new manual also includes tips and guides for using basic word processing applications. The training content is ideal for increasing the level of awareness, confidence and understanding of the benefits of ICTs to senior citizens.
The courses will be made available through the Community Technology Learning Centres. Registrations for new myWeb can be made through the stand of the Ministry for Investment, Industry and IT – Hall D, during the IT & T Fair between Wednesday 12th and Sunday 16th October.
|
