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"Very good - very easy to learn because of the workshop's informality. It put no pressure on anyone"- Learner
This project aimed to digital literacy among older people in rural Offaly. Older people often have better access to digital literacy options in larger towns, so this programme targeted rural areas instead.
These digital literacy workshops took place in Kinnitty, Shinrone, Rhode, and Killeigh between September and December 2024. At least 57 older people attended the workshops.
Tutors worked with small to medium-sized groups, which made learning easier and more informal. Additional one-to-one supports to troubleshoot queries were also available for participants.
This project also addressed social isolation and loneliness. By bringing older people together in rural settings, workshops helped build durable digital and social connections.
Learners greatly improved their ability to use smartphones, iPads/tablets, and laptops. Many feel more confident about making calls, sending texts, WhatsApp, using emails, and managing photos.
Participants also became aware of other training organisations and learning opportunities that are available locally.
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This project was a collaboration between Offaly Integrated Local Development Company, Ballycommon Telework and Training Centre, and West Offaly Training.
For more information about the project, please contact Tamara Latham, Regional Literacy Coordinator in Laois and Offaly ETB, at tlatham@loetb.ie
The Adult Literacy for Life Collaboration and Innovation Fund
The Collaboration and Innovation Fund supports projects for adults with unmet literacy, numeracy and digital literacy needs and projects that support organisations to be literacy friendly. The closing date for 2024 applications has now passed but keep an eye out for information on our 2025 fund which will be launched in December.
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