Ireland has among the lowest digital literacy levels in Europe for people over 65. The EU average is around 25%, but Ireland falls short with just 19% of those in that age bracket with sufficient digital literacy.
But what is digital literacy? When you consider literacy in general, this covers the ability to read and write for ease of communication. Adding a digital aspect requires the same skills, but applying them to the use of technology.
As the advancements in technology have noticeably ramped up over the past number of decades, even more so as a result of the pandemic, many over 65s risk being left behind in a world that's becoming increasingly reliant on digital literacy.
In a bid to get Ireland up to speed, as part of a new segment on The Today Show, Technology Journalist Mark Kavanagh will be going through some expert tutorials on how to gain more confidence using the internet. This segment is proudly sponsored by Hi Digital, a new programme from Vodafone Ireland Foundation offering free digital skills training.
This week, we're looking at how to get your phone set up and how to download apps (or applications, to give them their full name). They’re basically shortcuts to get you online without having to go the usual route of a web browser.
First, you’ll need to work out whether you’ve got an iPhone or an Android. It’s pretty easy to tell - simply look at the back of your phone. If it’s got an apple on it, then it’s an iPhone. If not, it’s an Android. Keep that in mind, you’ll need it for later.
In order to use the phone, you’ll need a SIM card. That’s what connects your phone to the network. There might already be one in the phone if you bought it from a shop with a helpful assistant, otherwise, follow the instructions that came with the phone to get it in place. (This varies from phone to phone, but is usually straightforward).
When you first turn on the phone, you’ll be asked to set up a passcode or a PIN (personal identification number) for security. It’s usually four digits long, so pick something you’ll easily remember and then write it down somewhere safe just in case you forget.
Next, if you’ve got an Android phone, you’ll be prompted to set up a Google account to access its apps, or if you’ve an iPhone, you’ll need an Apple ID. Simply follow the prompts on screen to link your email address with the account. If you haven’t got an email address, it may be time to enlist the help of a tech-savvy youngster in your life.
Now that the fiddly bits are finally done, you may be wondering how you do the simplest thing - make a phone call. On the home screen of the unlocked phone, you should see a phone-shaped icon. If you touch that, you’ll be taken to a new screen where you’ll see a keypad. Simply key in the number you want to call and press the phone button to begin calling.
If you’d like to get online, here’s how to do it. Either connect the phone to your WiFi at home using the password on the box, or use the phone’s mobile data (the SIM card we mentioned earlier), which is what the phone will automatically use when you’re out and about.
Once it’s connected, let’s get you set up with some apps. Let’s say you’d like to check the weather or the news. Using an iPhone, go to the App Store or using an Android, head to the Google Play Store and search for 'RTÉ News’ or ‘Met Éireann’. When you find the right app, press the download button and enter your password. Once it’s downloaded, it will appear on your home screen alongside the other apps that came pre-installed on the phone. Simply press to open and you’ll find all the info you need.
If you’d rather follow along with Mark’s expert tutorial, check out the video above. Keep an eye out for more lessons in the coming weeks, as Mark will also be covering everything you need to know about passwords, emails, video calls, online banking, taking photos, avoiding scams and even organising a trip.
Hi Digital is a new programme from Vodafone Ireland Foundation offering FREE digital skills training to older people (65 years old +). In partnership with Active Retirement Ireland and ALONE, the training is available online or in face-to-face classes nationwide. It covers essential online skills including: How to use your smartphone, security online, connecting with others through social apps, and how to find entertainment and plan trips online. Go to https://hidigital.ie for more information.
