15 September 2009

iTea and biscuits for 'Silver Surfers'

The School of Computing at the University of Dundee will help to bridge the digital divide next week when events aimed at introducing older users to computing and technology take place.

Doors to the School will be thrown open to over-60s between 10am-12pm on Tuesday, September 22nd, and between 10am-2pm on Thursday, September 24th as part of Age Concern’s itea and biscuits week.

Taster sessions will take place to help older users try new things and staff and peers will be on hand to offer assistance and encouragement to a group whose fear of new technology is often the biggest impediment to them joining the digital age.

Those who attend the free event, which takes place at the User Centre in the University’s Queen Mother Building, will have the opportunity to see how technology can enhance their lives. They will gain a greater understanding of the benefits of technology through demonstrations of the internet and other applications.

Dr Paula Forbes, from the School of Computing, explained, 'This is a great way for people who grew up when computers weren’t a part of everyday life to discover that technology isn’t just for the young, and we know there are many older people who are prepared to change the way they view computers.'

'Bringing people here and stimulating their interest in computers and technology is very important for us as a significant proportion of the research we do focuses on how to make technology better for older people and for those with disabilities.'

'In addition, they’ll be enriching their own lives by being able to be a part of the digital community.'

This is the second itea and biscuits week run by Age Concern, and events will be held across the UK from September 21st-25th. Last year’s launch saw thousands of ‘silver surfers’ take part in a range of events that opened up their eyes to the possibilities that engaging with computing opened up for them.

The School of Computing at Dundee contains one of the largest and most influential academic groups in the world researching into information technology and assistive technology for older and disabled people.

It boasts more than 30 researchers with a unique blend of disciplines including computer engineers, psychologists, therapists, creative designers and staff who have benefited from interdisciplinary careers.

For more information about either the Open Day, or University of Dundee assistive technology research in general, please contact Dr Forbes on 01382 388872 or email pforbes@computing.dundee.ac.uk.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
MOBILE: 07854 953277