This initiative, “Give Back Tech,” was motivated by personal experiences and seeks to use technology to empower senior citizens. It uses a blended learning design to enable thorough smartphone training for senior clubs, communities, or groups. This approach offers individualized and interactive learning opportunities through in-person training sessions led by community volunteers. When these volunteers aren’t available, a specially designed custom GPT-based tool takes over to provide support and direction in real time. Additionally, a physical paper guide, distributed by volunteers, ensures seniors can access “how-to” information anytime. This initiative ensures ongoing support, enhancing seniors’ digital connectivity and independence, and ultimately improving their quality of life by promoting digital inclusion.
BLENDED TRAINING APPROACH
This blended learning design includes three key aspects to help elderly individuals learn how to use smartphones effectively: face-to-face training sessions, a custom ChatGPT support system, and a physical paper-based comprehensive guide. Volunteers and coaches from community centers will provide the scaffolded paper guide, making it easy for seniors to access “how-to” information. This guide serves as a valuable resource for times when they are not in-person with coaches, ensuring continuous learning and support.
- Face-to-Face Trainings : These sessions involve direct, in-person interactions between volunteers/coaches of the community centres and elderly learners. The personalized nature of face-to-face training ensures that specific needs and questions can be addressed immediately, making the learning process more engaging and effective.
2. Custom Gpt: The custom GPT serves as a convenient resource for learners when instructors aren’t available. It offers real-time support, answers questions, and provides guidance on various topics, ensuring learners can continue progressing without interruptions. Link : /https://chatgpt.com/g/g-WOAW2tl2r-give-back-tech .
3. Smartphone Guide for Seniors: This comprehensive guide is specifically designed to help seniors navigate the complexities of smartphone technology. It empowers them to use smartphones confidently and independently, enhancing their digital skills and access to information even when immediate assistance is unavailable. Link : https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g3KyUZa1toGGRyNbPa9izIQlphoYMwgm/view?usp=sharing
