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Training for Users of ICT

An ICT user requires the knowledge and skills of those who use ICT systems. For example, this would include using word processing, emailing or using the internet.

Statistics

  • In 2007, only one in five employees aged 50-59 had IT training‚ compared to one in three 25-49 year olds
  • Between January and April 2006, 15% of those aged 65 and over had used the internet
  • 36% of Britain's disabled people have access to the internet

According to Age Concern (2007) "once older people begin to use new technology for leisure‚ most want to carry on learning.  However‚ they face barriers to keeping up their new skills as many communities lack appropriate training facilities and older people are the least likely to own their own computer".

Ways to train ICT users

Face to face training course /one on one /one to many / group training sessions

How to talk to them

Home-based training

AbilityNet

Instruction booklets

Manufacturers of ICT systems should provide access to information and documentation including user guides, installation guides and product support communications. These should be provided in alternative formats so that they can be accessed by everyone.

Online classes

Online classes customised for people with disabilities or the ageing population introduce the power of the Internet by engaging them in online computer classes. This allows the trainer to demonstrate Internet and computer technology simultaneously.

Computer DVD instructional courses

The ageing population and people with disabilities who have access to a television might appreciate learning about their ICT system with a method they are familiar with. Numerous DVD courses teach all aspects of ICT, specifically computer related technologies.

After training

Training "after care"

Telephone helpline

Call centre type thing

Recommendations

Written instructions

  • Have a table of contents and a good index
  • Be task orientated
  • Provide alternate formats (e.g. audio tape, large print)
  • Provide alternate modes of delivery (e.g. fax, relay service, TTY, Internet posting)
  • Choose a clear, easy-to-read typeface that will distinguish between characters and numerals - a sans-serif typeface is considered preferable, such as Tiresias LP Font or Arial
  • Kerning between specific characters is sufficient so as to ensure legibility
  • Clear print documents should use a minimum type size of 12 point or ideally 14 point
  • A medium weight is used for blocks of text
  • A bold weight is used for emphasis rather than consistently
  • Constant use of capital letters or italics is avoided
  • Blocks of text should not be underlined
  • Text is aligned to the left margin
  • Aim for a clear contrast, as high as possible, between the text/image on the page and the background colour
  • White/off-white/cream paper creates the best contrast with black ink
  • Avoid printing text over photographs or illustrations or over a wash, effect or tint that reduces contrast and clarity
  • Yellow with blue and green with red combinations are avoided
  • Information is conveyed in text as well as images
  • Captions for images are used in a consistent way
  • If text is wrapped around an image, the image is on the right hand side of the page
  • Illustrations should be line drawings with thick, dark strokes or outlines

Standards

  • ISO/IEC Guide 37: (1995) Instructions for use of products of consumer interest
  • JIS S 0012: (2000) Guidelines for all people including elderly and people with disabilities - Usability of consumer products

Acknowledgements

Further information