12 February 2001
Foulkes hears plans for Queen Mother Centre
Media opportunity 4pm today (Monday), Applied Computing Department, Jam
Factory, Small's Wynd, University of Dundee.
Scotland Office Minister George Foulkes will be visiting the applied
computing department at the University of Dundee today to hear about the
latest plans for the Queen Mother Centenary Research Centre.
The Queen Mother Centenary Research Centre is the University of Dundee's
latest initiative in cutting edge research to investigate practical IT
support for elderly people. There is a reluctance among the older
generations to use IT and a lack of resources to enable them to
integrate IT in their lives. The research centre will tackle these issues and
offer practical solutions.
Dr Norman Alm of the applied computing department explained: "Contrary
to the stereotype, IT and elderly people are an ideal match. It allows
older people to accomplish many things very quickly and easily, keeping in
touch by email, video conferencing and shopping on line. The communications
aspect of IT is very popular and vital to many older people. Elderly
people are showing huge interest in the vast array of information and services
available on the web. Particularly popular are travel service and hobby
sites."
As well as staff and students, George Foulkes will meet Mamie
Bruce-Gardyne who has pioneered a Cyber cafe in Angus to encourage the community to
access the internet and email. She organises introductory workshops in
computing for older people.
Contact Professor Alan Newell on 01382 344144