New program to promote digital literacy amongst seniors

Randi-Lee Durham, Director of Employment & Literacy Programs, reviews some of the seniors’ digital programming with Bill Cannon, a senior digital client. The Multi-Service Centre will offer new micro classes in digital literacy this fall, in addition to existing longer classes. (Submitted Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

An Ontario government grant is bringing a new seniors’ digital literacy class to the Tillsonburg Multi-Service Centre.

The Seniors Community Grant, through the Ontario Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility, funded a program that the Multi-Service Centre will be launching this fall to increase digital literacy.

The 90-minute sessions will cover topics such as using Facebook, Zoom, Google Maps, Microsoft Suite, and how to use the Tillsonburg app. The Multi-Service literacy team has been working on the course content.

“What they have is basic, which is great for seniors,” said Randi-Lee Durham, Director of Employment & Literacy Programs.

The free classes will be available both in the Multi-Service Centre and in three off-site locations in the town. The offsite locations will be the Tillsonburg Seniors Centre, Tillsonburg Legion, and Tillsonburg Retirement Centre. Participants have the option to use smartphones provided by the Multi-Service Centre for class use only or bring their own.

Free transportation will be available to the classes at the Multi-Service Centre.

“The objective of this technology project is to equip seniors with the skills necessary to foster social connections, enhance their mental health, and build confidence in using digital applications, all while maintaining their independence,” Durham explained.

Dates confirmed are Wednesday, Sept. 17 at the Tillsonburg Legion and Wednesday, Sept. 24, both 10 a.m. to noon. Call 519-842-9000, ext. 266 to register. Contact the Multi-Service Centre at 519-842-9008 for exact times and locations of future presentations.

Time changes in existing programs

Changes will be coming to time slots for some existing programs offered at the Multi-Service Centre.

Currently, programs such as math, English, and digital skills (the full course, not the new short ones) are offered at specific times throughout the week. These will be changed to flexible programming times, which will run from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tuesday until 8 p.m.

“This shift allows individuals to drop in at times that suit learners and receive individualized support,” Durham said.

She said the new model promotes inclusivity and responsiveness, enabling learning to focus on specific goals at their own pace.

“We are confident this client-centric approach will lead to improved learner engagement, greater accessibility and stronger outcomes for our community,” Durham said.