Supporting and mentoring mature learners : a ‘train-the-trainer’ programme for facilitators of ICT learning for older adults

Abstract

The development of this guidebook reflects the Malta Communications Authority’s concern that demographics in Malta are changing to the extent that the proportion of older adults - compared to younger peers - is increasing at a very fast rate. The issue of how older adults spend their retirement is taking on new social and political significance. Mature persons are looking for new ways of remaining active. Whilst some continue working and/or looking for new leisure opportunities, others are seeking to develop new skills by participating in various formal and non-formal avenues of learning. The Malta Communications Authority joins the United Nations and the European Union in deeming mature learning as a productive investment on the basis that not only it engenders positive returns of economic growth, but also improves the quality of life and social development of older persons.