Gwanak-gu, 'Digital Literacy Education' for Seniors

Practical Training on Unmanned Terminals (Kiosks) Encountered in Daily Life Such as Banks, Subways, Restaurants, Cafes, and Cinemas... Life Changes with Smart Aging Like Checking Bus Arrival Times and Video Calling Grandchildren via Smartphone

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Gwanak-gu (Mayor Park Junhee) has recently launched a ‘Digital Literacy Education’ program to help the elderly and illiterate individuals adapt to the digital environment, as non-face-to-face culture has expanded and unmanned devices have become more widespread due to COVID-19.

Unmanned terminals (kiosks) commonly seen in our daily lives such as banks, subways, restaurants, cafes, and movie theaters provide convenience in everyday life but pose difficulties for the elderly who are not familiar with digital devices in their social activities.

According to the ‘2020 Digital Information Gap Survey’ announced by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Information Society Agency, among the four vulnerable information groups (disabled, low-income, farmers and fishermen, elderly), the elderly showed the lowest level of digital informatization.

Accordingly, the district educates the elderly and illiterate individuals using screens identical to kiosks installed in movie theaters and cafes to eliminate fear of digital devices and enable practical use in daily life through hands-on practice.

In addition, education on smartphone usage is provided, including basic functions, settings, and how to use Wi-Fi and data.

In particular, learners can learn various frequently used apps in daily life such as alarm, calculator, memo, voice recording, public transportation apps, and KakaoTalk, which provide convenience in everyday life, receiving great positive responses from participants.

One learner participating in the education said, “Being able to check bus times in advance on my smartphone means I don’t have to wait long at the bus stop in hot or cold weather or rush to catch the bus,” expressing joy at experiencing a convenient world.

The digital literacy education program will be conducted from May to November for 50 participants at Gwanak-gu Lifelong Learning Center (May?November), Gang Gamchan Gwanak Comprehensive Social Welfare Center (May?August), and Sillim Comprehensive Social Welfare Center (June?September), strictly adhering to COVID-19 prevention guidelines.

Mayor Park Junhee said, “As smart aging is gaining attention due to the aging population structure, strengthening the digital capabilities of the elderly is very important at this time,” adding, “We will continue to expand, develop, and actively operate various educational programs that meet the times to support the happy lives of the elderly.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.