Description:
A review of the issues in teaching computer skills to adults, with particular emphasis on the needs of the older adult. Three main areas are considered: adult and lifelong learning, including personal issues and pressures facing the learner; the specific demands of teaching practical computer skills, including the classroom environment; and the particular problems faced by learners as they get older, such as physiological changes.The paper draws on evidence from work in all of these areas, as well as research into the views and needs of the learners themselves. Rather than reach specific conclusions for such a diverse group of learners, the paper identifies some key factors which the adult learning tutor should consider when teaching practical computer skills, particularly when older adults are involved, for example the class composition and the presentation of handouts.There is no indication that older people cannot learn these skills, but the tutor must be aware of the specific characteristics and needs of the group.