Digital Literacy of Older People and the Role of Intergenerational Approach in Supporting Their Competencies in Times of COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This paper presents the preliminary results of two research projects conducted in Croatia and Europe that tackle the issues of digital literacy and the digital divide among older citizens. This methodology combines both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including a public opinion poll and a case study with intergenerational workshops on digital and media literacy. Both studies were conducted during the pandemic, after the second half of 2020 and in 2021, thus providing information about unexpected and imposition uses of digital technologies among older people and both revealed low levels of participation in the digital environment associated with the lack of digital skills and weak infrastructure. The innovative concept of the research was also highlighted through the involvement of journalism students, which contributed to the promotion an intergenerational guidance and support to older people. This support was provided mainly in terms of promoting online digital literacy.