SilverTech Smartphone Digital Literacy Course

Age Concern Otago runs free 'SilverTech' smartphone courses for older New Zealanders: four weekly two-hour sessions capped at eight participants, delivered across six Otago-region locations to build digital confidence and reduce social isolation.

University of Otago researchers evaluated 13 courses run February-June 2022 using a pre/post survey. Of 122 people enrolled, 98 (74%) completed both surveys; the evaluation found statistically significant improvements on every measure -- self-rated knowledge rose 1.35 points, skills 1.30, confidence 1.12 and motivation 0.33 (p<0.05 to p<0.001). Across 29 digital competencies, all showed significant gains, e.g. 'knowing how to download an app' rose from 1.72 to 3.77 out of 5. Almost 97% of participants said the course met their needs.

The study design was observational (pre/post, no control group) with self-reported measures, and the sample skewed female and NZ European, limiting generalisability. The authors recommend follow-up drop-in sessions to sustain gains; courses continue on a regular schedule as of 2025-2026.