Major · Extension Work · Semester 6 · TY BA · 2 credits · 50 marks · 30 hours
Module 1: Foundations Of Digital Technology And Communication For Seniors
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1
Understanding the Digital Divide: Challenges for seniors (vision, technology anxiety), benefits of digital literacy (active aging, independence, social connection), and principles of teaching older adults (andragogy, patience, repetition).
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2
Basic Computer Skills: Hardware components, operating systems (Windows basics), keyboard and mouse techniques (typing, clicking, scrolling)
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3
Smartphone Fundamentals: Android/iOS interfaces, touchscreen navigation, managing settings (font size, brightness, volume, accessibility features), and safely installing/ uninstalling apps.
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4
Internet Basics and Navigation: Understanding browsers, search engines, finding reliable information (health, news, services), and safe browsing practices.
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5
Digital Communication Tools: Email (creating accounts, composing, sending, managing), video calling (WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet), social media basics (Facebook), messaging safety, and online etiquette.
Module 2: Digital Services, Safety, And Empowerment
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1
E-Governance and Government Services: Aadhaar, PAN, pension portals, senior citizen welfare schemes, accessing certificates, and navigating government websites.
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2
Digital Banking and Financial Services: UPI setup and usage, online banking (checking balance, transaction history), digital payments, online bill payments (electricity, phone, utilities), and safe transaction practices.
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3
Healthcare and Lifestyle Services: Booking doctor appointments, telemedicine platforms, accessing health records, online medicine ordering, digital entertainment (YouTube, music, e-books, online newspapers), and online shopping basics.
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4
Online Safety and Cybersecurity: Creating strong passwords, two-factor authentication, identifying and avoiding scams (phishing, fraud, fake calls), privacy protection, recognizing fake news, and reporting cybercrimes.
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5
Assistive Technologies and Program Design: Accessibility features (screen readers, voice commands, magnification), age-friendly apps, creating supportive learning environments, and evaluating digital literacy programs for seniors.
Reference Books
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1
Hill, R., Betts, L. R., & Gardner, S. E. (2015). Older Adults' Experiences and Perceptions of Digital Technology. IGI Global.
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Friemel, T. N. (2016). The Digital Divide Has Grown Old: Determinants of a Digital Divide Among Seniors. New Media & Society.
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3
Van Deursen, A. J., & Helsper, E. J. (2015). A Nuanced Understanding of Internet Use and Non-use Among the Elderly. European Journal of Communication.
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4
AARP Foundation. (2020). Senior Planet Technology Training Curriculum. AARP Publications.
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5
Selwyn, N., Gorard, S., Furlong, J., & Madden, L. (2018). Digital Technology and the Contemporary University: Degrees of Digitization. Routledge.
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6
Wagner, N., Hassanein, K., & Head, M. (2010). Computer Use by Older Adults: A Multi- disciplinary Review. Computers in Human Behavior Journal.
