ÖIAT Research

The Austrian Institute for Applied Telecommunications (ÖIAT) has been promoting the competent, safe and responsible use of digital media for more than 20 years. Together with our partners, we conduct research on current topics related to the digital world. On this page we provide an overview of past and current research projects.

Policies for Senior Citizens in a Digital World


Coordination
go to oiat.at
Funding
go to sozialministerium.at
Results
Contact

Österreichisches Institut für Angewandte Telekommunikation (ÖIAT)

research@oiat.at
+43-1-595 2112

2014/012014/01
Digital Literacy Gender & Diversity Seniors

The aim of the project is to carry out a study to develop policy recommendations to support older people in their use of digital media. The recommendations are addressed to professionals working on projects involving senior citizens, as well as decision-makers in the public, private and educational sectors.


Older people in the post-working phase of their lives (aged 55 and over) differ from each other in a number of ways. These include their individual prior knowledge, their willingness to continue learning, their socio-economic situation, age-related limitations and their motivation to acquire new knowledge. In order to find appropriate ways to equip them with Internet skills, it is important to understand the heterogeneity of the target group.

The study explores the various aspects of assisting elderly people in their use of digital media, and includes a collection of practical knowledge, tips and educational strategies for successful work with this target group.

The study was conducted by means of secondary data analysis of relevant literature, collection and evaluation of examples from Austria and abroad, 21 expert interviews, and a focus group with seniors. The results of the study were also informed by the authors’ expertise.