Cyber-Seniors’ goal is to bridge the digital divide and connect generations through technology.

Cyber-Seniors : Connecting Generations

United States, Canada

Cyber-Seniors trains students to become technology mentors for older adults and provides them with the opportunity to receive practical experience while earning service hours. Upon completion students are awarded a completion certificate and become eligible for awards and prizes. Through this experience students develop important job skills that enhance opportunities for future employment.

Career Skills, Digital Literacy, Digital Wellbeing, Student led, Youth Work

Introduction

Introduction Media Milestones Map

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Introduction

What is Cyber-Seniors : Connecting Generations?

Building on the award-winning film and high school community service project, Cyber-Seniors is a non-profit organization that encourages tech-savvy youth to put their knowledge to good use by mentoring older adults in technology.

The program is comprised of the following two phases.

Phase 1: Mentor Training Program

Students watch 6 interactive video lessons on the Cyber-Seniors web portal, that cover the following themes-

1. Intro to Cyber -Seniors

2. Tips for Working with Older Adults

3. Teaching Technology to Older Adults

4. Why Measure?

5. Staying Safe Online

6. Troubleshooting Technology

After completing each lesson, students take a short online quiz which earns them a Cyber Seniors Mentor Training Certificate and digital badge.

Educators may also lead students through a number of learning activities (provided on the web portal) that help develop a variety of skills that further prepare them for their role as digital mentors.

Phase 2: Volunteer Experience

In this Phase students apply their new skills by volunteering as digital mentors. Over 1200 resources are available on the Cyber-Seniors web portal to assist students in their mentoring role. The system automatically logs the students volunteer time and awards them a Cyber-Seniors Volunteer Service Certificate and digital badge after completing 16 hours.