Srđan Lukačević, from the Osijek City and University Library (Croatia) has sent us information about this activity for seniors:
The Osijek City and University Library is a constituent of the Josip Juraj Strossmayer University in Osijek, acting as a dual function library: the central public library of the City of Osijek and Osijek-Baranja County and the central academic library of the Josip Juraj Strossmayer University in Osijek. In accordance with the above functions and tasks, the Library develops as a public general library with polyvalent content.
Computer and information literacy presents an integral part of general literacy in modern world. In the absence of the above mentioned, difficulties can often appear while trying to keep up with technological advances, which in turn create a digital gap, particularly pronounced with senior citizen population. Consequently, it is crucial to continually work towards information literacy of senior citizens, thus enabling them to enjoy the benefits “new” types of literacy provide.
Through the computer and information literacy program at the Osijek City and University Library, several groups of senior citizens, a total of 120 participants, successfully completed the course. Computer and information literacy levels vary from non-existing to basic knowledge. Therefore, the program itself as well as the individual lectures are tailored to each group, with emphasis towards every individual within the group. Interest of potential participants is very high, and inquiries are intensifying daily. Thanks to the courses, Osijek City and University Library is further recognized within its community, adding to its reputation. Through cooperation with the local community, we improve the quality of life of senior citizens. The courses have also led to an increase in the number of Library users, as well as increased use of library services.
The courses are intended for all senior citizens who wish to acquire computer and Internet search competences, or in other words, want to gain or improve their computer and information literacy. Educational project is conceived as an active seminar through which attendees adopt the knowledge appliable to their private and business life, with emphasis to the Internet and computer technologies and services. Participants are familiarized with basic computer and information science concepts and given a compulsory educational segment on protecting themselves from the dangers that the Internet brings. Participants are not charged for the course.
The course consists of a theoretical and practical part of the lesson lasting around 90 minutes, held twice a week for a period of two months. Total duration of the course with introductory lecture and final exams with graduation is 20 hours, 30 minutes. (It should be noted that this is an approximate time-table, as the lessons can be extended if the lecturer feels the group didn’t adopt necessary skills and knowledge).
Osijek City and University Library is the last Croatian library in joining the program and doesn’t have a sister yet, do you want to partner with them? Click on the name of the library and send an email to their contact!
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