CODE | GDM2029 | |||||||||
TITLE | Gerontechnology and Digital Inclusion in Later Life | |||||||||
UM LEVEL | 02 - Years 2, 3 in Modular Undergraduate Course | |||||||||
MQF LEVEL | 5 | |||||||||
ECTS CREDITS | 4 | |||||||||
DEPARTMENT | Gerontology and Dementia Studies | |||||||||
DESCRIPTION | This is an innovative study-unit designed to explore the intersection of technology and the ageing experience. In an era where technological advancements are rapidly transforming daily life, this unit delves into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by gerontechnology for older individuals. The study-unit begins by providing a foundational understanding of gerontechnology, encompassing a diverse range of technological solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of the elderly. Students will explore smart home technologies, health monitoring tools, and other innovations that contribute to the well-being of older individuals. A significant focus of the unit is dedicated to addressing the digital divide among older populations. Recognizing that digital literacy is a key determinant of social inclusion, the course emphasizes strategies to enhance older individuals' proficiency in navigating the digital landscape. By fostering digital inclusion, the study-unit aims to empower older individuals to engage meaningfully in the digital era, ensuring they benefit from the advancements in technology. Moreover, the unit critically examines the ethical considerations associated with the use of gerontechnology. Privacy, autonomy, and the potential impact on interpersonal relationships are thoroughly explored to equip students with a holistic understanding of the implications of integrating technology into the lives of older individuals. Practical applications form a vital component of the study unit, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with various gerontechnological tools. Through case studies and simulations, students will assess the effectiveness of these technologies in real-world scenarios, preparing them for the practical challenges they may encounter in their professional roles. Study-unit Aims: The study-unit aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of gerontechnology's role in enhancing the well-being of older individuals. The primary objectives include fostering digital inclusion by addressing the digital literacy gap among seniors, exploring innovative gerontechnological solutions, and critically examining the ethical dimensions associated with their implementation. The unit seeks to empower students to assess, implement, and advocate for the ethical use of gerontechnology, promoting independence, connectivity, and improved quality of life for the ageing population. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - describe and discuss diverse range of technological solutions designed to meet the unique needs and challenges of older individuals; - design and implement strategies to bridge the digital divide; - critically assess the effectiveness and appropriateness of various gerontechnological tools in addressing the specific needs and concerns of older individuals in diverse contexts; - demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the ethical implications associated with the use of gerontechnology, including issues of privacy, autonomy, and the potential impact on social relationships; and - evaluate innovative solutions using gerontechnology to promote active aging, independence, and overall well-being among older individuals. 2. Skills By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - demonstrate proficiency in implementing gerontechnological solutions, demonstrating the skills needed to set up, troubleshoot, and optimize various technologies to meet the specific needs of older individuals; - evaluate the effectiveness of gerontechnological tools in real-world scenarios, with the ability to adapt solutions based on individual requirements and changing circumstances; - discuss and evaluate ethical issues in the context of gerontechnology, including the ability to navigate complex ethical considerations, communicate transparently, and prioritize the well-being and autonomy of older individuals; and - employ problem-solving skills and a mindset of innovation by identifying challenges in the implementation of gerontechnology, proposing creative solutions, and adapting approaches to optimize outcomes for older individuals. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: Main text: - Neves, Barbara Barbosa., and Frank. Vetere. (2019). Ageing and Digital Technology Designing and Evaluating Emerging Technologies for Older Adults. Supplementary reading: - Pilotto, A., & Maetzler, W. (2023). Gerontechnology. a Clinical Perspective. Cham: Springer International Publishing AG. |
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STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Independent Study and Online Learning | |||||||||
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |