Connecting new users digitally

Connecting new users digitally
As part of ‘Get Online Week’ Grenville volunteer Jenny Johnstone (pictured right) is running free introductory sessions for beginners covering a range of technology skills for beginners.

Since retiring Grenville volunteer Jenny Johnstone has embraced online learning to help her navigate the digital world.

Having been employed in administration roles, Jenny had experience working with technology in her professional life, however never had the opportunity to explore the benefits in personal life until she retired.

Jenny now regularly listens to music, pays bills and watches movies online and uses Facebook, with confidence. So much so she has started sharing her interest and knowledge with family members.

I taught my Dad who is 86 how to access digital platforms and he absolutely loves getting online for the social interaction.

“When we travelled with him overseas, he took photos to share with everyone on Facebook! The key to teaching him was keeping it simple to slowly build his confidence.”

According to Jenny the reason a number of older people are scared of digital learning “is that official computer courses are structured which doesn’t always suit the learner.”

“That’s the beauty of the Be Connected courses, we deliver the course in a casual environment with simple content which allows the individual to lead their learning.”

Jenny will be using the same caring and patient approach she used to teach her dad with attendees of Be Connected.

The Grenville Hub is holding the Be Connected program as part of ‘Get Online Week‘ which is held from Monday, 19 October to Sunday, 25 October.

‘Get Online Week’ encourages people will limited computer skills to get more out of life online, which is particularly relevant in 2020.

Join Be Connected on Friday, 23 October between 9am – 12:30pm for free introductory sessions for beginners on the following topics:

  • Intro to technology – computer, smart phone, tablet basics
  • Setting up an email account and basics features
  • How to search and keep safe on the internet
  • Connect with family and friends – download an app, video calls and send a ‘selfie’

/Public Release. View in full here.