Clement Kennedy is an 84-year-old from Half Moon Bay, California. She lives alone in a nursing home apartment without a TV. Her digital literacy instructor, CTN’s Giang (Jen) Tran, says, “Clement was one of the fastest-learning students that I’ve ever had. … I believe that having a tablet to watch the news and find entertainment has had a big impact on her well-being and mental health.”
Clement and Jen meet remotely each week through CTN’s Home Connect program, allowing Clement to learn technology from home.
Below is an excerpt of Jen’s interview with Clement.
Has being online helped you feel connected to others?
Yes, I have more things in common to talk about with my son because I can now complain with him whenever my tablet doesn’t work right or there’s something I don’t know how to do on the tablet [laughs].
Has being online helped you feel more self-reliant? Why?
Yes, absolutely. I can contact other people more independently and search for the news and information I need on my own. Also, I can make appointments with my doctor, keep track of my health records, and purchase my prescriptions online.
Has learning digital skills brought joy to your life?
Yes, it has brought me much joy. I can use YouTube to listen to different news sources and to search for movies and music. I can also share videos that I like with other people through email or messages, which also makes me feel a lot more connected with them.
Is there anything you intend to self-teach or learn online now that you have mastered some skills?
Yes, after you (Jen) showed me an app (Canva) to make card designs yesterday, I would like to explore some more on my own. I saw that the app allows me to create my own designs, so I would like to learn how to insert texts and pictures to make my own cards and get creative with it.
What would you say to someone who has never been online before and might be nervous?
I would tell them to not be scared because the instructors are always here to help. For example, you (Jen) helped guide me through using different buttons. If I make mistakes, I just try again or call you for help. You were very patient and helpful during the training so I felt really comfortable. I think other learners will feel the same way if they do training with you.
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