‘Digital immigrants’ interact with technology through instructional program

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As the world further transforms digitally, one group is in danger of being left behind.

Sometimes called “digital immigrants,” seniors can have difficulty adapting to new technology.

To combat this generational rift, the Serra Mesa-Kearny Mesa Library hosts a weekly Communicating with Technology course that teaches seniors how to use their devices.

“The idea for the class is basically showing that the ways we communicate are changing,” said Mary Burns, who teaches the Monday class that is offered through San Diego Continuing Education.

She said she hopes the class will enable students to be more comfortable with new technologies as they play a bigger role in everyday life.

Classes this semester have walked a few dozen students 55 and older through concepts such as the cloud, Google Maps and email.

“I like the way it’s set up to do a different part of technology each time,” said Drew Judd, 72, a student in the class.

Other sessions in the summer explore online safety, digital photography and even the transition from cable television to streaming services.

“I have a list of things that I want to learn,”Judd said. “I anticipate being able to ask more of the questions I specifically have.”

Burns helped start the course in 2008 and has taught it every semester since then.

She enjoys when students are engaged and curious.

“They ask really good questions, they’re not afraid to try things,” Burns said. “They challenge me. During class I’m often having to look things up on the fly.”

Alternating between a computer, an iPad and an Android phone, Burns attempts to help her students understand how to use technology in their daily lives.

She does this through demonstrations the students can follow on their personal devices, as well as working one-on-one with them as problems arise.

A class website at cwtsdce.org provides an overview of each lesson and additional resources students can explore on their own.

“Remember that the internet is a great source of information,” Burns said at the beginning of a class in July before encouraging students to seek out online tutorials.

Only 26 percent of internet users 65 or older are confident using electronic devices, according to the Pew Research Center.

Seventy-three percent say when they get a new device they need help learning to use it.

“I don’t have kids or grandkids to teach me,” Judd said. “All of us in the class are somewhat in the same boat, where we’re somewhat overwhelmed by the velocity of the development of technology.”

Burns’ goal with the program is for seniors to leave with the ability to navigate an increasingly digital world.

“Seniors are one of the most underserved groups when it comes to technology,” Burns said. “I would like them to come away with more confidence in using these devices.”

Emma Taila is a member of the U-T Community Journalism Scholars Program.