22 May 2007

Silver surfers urged to discover their online life

(Photo opportunities during Open Day - 10 am to 3 pm, Queen Mother Building, University of Dundee)

The latest advances in computing and the newest buzz on the internet may traditionally be thought of as the preserve of the young, but the University of Dundee’s School of Computing will this week throw open its doors to a group of older people who may have the most to gain from embracing new technology.

As part of the national `Silver Surfer Week’, which gives older people the chance to taste the benefits of the internet, the School of Computing will host an open day on Thursday May 24th.

Silver Surfer Week will encourage older people to discover how the internet can help them engage in a wide variety of activities, from staying in touch with friends and family to meeting new people, banking, shopping and booking holidays online, and researching their family tree.

The School of Computing already hosts a regular gathering of `Silver Surfers’ which attracts around 50 local people with ages ranging from the early 50's to nearly 90.

Jean Imrie, one of the User Centre Group, is one who has reaped the benefits of logging on wth the help of the University.

"Now I can surf the net and e-mail friends and family - and I have had a lot of fun while learning to do this," says Jean. "I can even order things online now - it’s great. I feel safe coming here to learn, which I’ve not always felt when trying to do things by myself. I am now gaining confidence with computers which I never thought I would."

Dr Paula Forbes, User Centre co-ordinator & researcher from the School of Computing at Dundee University said: "We are really excited about being able to offer older people in Dundee the chance to experience the internet. There’s so much out there on the web for older people."

"Accessing services and doing your shopping online can be a real lifeline for some. For others, it’s a great way to pursue hobbies or even meet new friends online. Our group also participate in sessions which help educate computing students in the needs of Older People. As our students will be the future developers of new technology systems for this group of people it is vital that they are fully aware of their needs and requirements. The other big plus for us is that older visitors often become involved in our programme of research into the technology needs of this group."

"Most of our group are from the Dundee area and surrounding towns, and we have a great mix of people coming. The drop-in sessions are very informal and we find that the older people are happy to help each other and share what they have learned. We have done classes on a wide range of topics from editing & sharing photos online to finding the best prices on goods, holidays, insurance etc."

"Lots of our group had never used a computer before and you certainly don't need to own one to come along and see what we have to offer."

The User Centre Group at the University of Dundee’s School of Computing are holding their Open Day on Thursday 24th May, between 10am - 3pm. Entry is free and refreshments and cakes will be available to buy on the day.

For more information contact Paula Forbes: e-mail pforbes@computing.dundee.ac.uk or phone 01382 388872

NOTES TO EDITORS

Age Concern and Digital Unite are running Silver Surfer Week from May 22nd to 26th, with support from BT, Intel and Microsoft and with thanks to AOL, Ofcom and learndirect Advice. Visit www.silversurfer.org.uk for more details.

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk