The Shaping Connections Research Program has released a new report which unpacks U3A Network Victoria's Digital Mentoring Program and the PEER model, a unique initiative designed to reduce digital exclusion and social isolation among older adults.
The Report - U3A Digital Mentoring Program
The report explains how the U3A Digital Mentoring Program organically evolved and established the PEER model, with a focus on building participants’ skills. It also explores the identification and support of Digital U3A Digital Mentoring Program '5 Mentors' who embraced a “peer-to-peer sharing of knowledge and experience”.
The development of a framework that supported the implementation of the Digital Mentoring Program was enhanced by the ongoing collaboration between U3A and RMIT University through the Shaping Connections Research Program,
Community Connectors and Mentors
The central roles that contributed to the program’s success and how these roles interact with each other was a key finding in the report and included:
Community Relationship Connectors
Support Mentors
Mentors and Mentees
Each of these roles was integral to establishing the PEER model, which focuses on building digital competencies while identifying and supporting mentors.
The PEER Model
The PEER model provides a tested methodology for engaging with older people and can be applied by other organisations seeking to connect with this vital demographic.
The PEER acronym stands for Pioneering, Experience-based, Empowering, and Responsive:
Pioneering
Based on innovative co-design, making it engaging for older people and helping them become more digitally competent.
Experience-based
Developed by the recipients of the teaching, and presented by people at the same stage of life who understand and share similar challenges.
Empowering
For older adults, acknowledging that everyone desires to continue learning and improving their skills, regardless of age. U3A observed that some mentees advance their skills and eventually become mentors themselves. Older people experience this opportunity to upskill and take on new roles, which empowers them and increases both their individual and collective capacity.
Responsive
To the needs of participants, industry partners, and service providers. The program was continuously refined over the years, adapting to circumstances and the evolving needs of mentees.
Find out more by downloading the U3A Digital Mentoring Program Report from our Publications page.
For more information on the U3A Digital Mentoring Program or to get in touch with the Shaping Connections team, please contact us.
Subscribe for more monthly blog updates like this.
Comentarios