Albury Wodonga olunteer Resource Bureau Know Your Gizmo

The issue Older people often express their concerns about their understanding and use of new technologies.

The issue Albury High School had expressed an interest in becoming involved in a suitable project whereby students could engage in the community.

Funding Funding for the project was provided through the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) Grants Scheme. The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.

Objectives Train Year 10 AHS student volunteers in skills needed for volunteering and communicating with older people. Older people work with High School students for 8 weeks, learning how to get the best from their ‘gizmos’.

Activities Students worked with older participants, helping them to understand and use their gizmos more effectively. They worked with mobile phones, ipads, laptops, cameras, GPS and ipods.

Skills Some of the areas students helped with were: Using touch screens New applications Setting up accounts ing, sending photos Setting up contact lists Organising photos and photo editing Managing files.

Outcomes 14 students trained in skills required for volunteering and communicating with older people. 48 older participants attended at least one session. (some remain on a waiting list) Students and older participants worked together over 8 sessions.

Outcomes for students 100% of students felt “great” about volunteering. They would volunteer again in this type of project and they would recommend it to other students. 100% of students felt that their efforts were appreciated.

Outcomes for students Some highlights mentioned by students: Helping people save their money Just connecting with people and helping them with their problems The pride you receive from helping people with everyday objects. Got to meet different people and helped me learn how to teach and be patient. Overall had a great time.

Outcomes for older participants 100% of participants said they had learnt what they wanted to learn and that they were using their gizmos more effectively.

Outcomes for older participants Some comments: The students coped very well with the lack of knowledge and endless questions. They were friendly, pleasant, tolerant and very knowledgeable about the ipad. Didn’t matter if you didn’t know anything – made welcome A great program for oldies!! Camaraderie was excellent!! Because of the students, I am more confident with GIZMOS than before. A big thank you.

Future Actions AWVRB can share the Know Your Gizmo plan and templates with other organisations that wish to run a similar project.