The internet as a platform for social interaction is widely unknown to Europe’s elderly population. The reason why they treat ICT with reserve is often an approach tailored to needs of younger people. In order to arouse enthusiasm for ICT and Web 2.0 technologies among seniors, it is important to address the specific needs of the older population.

Seniors project aims at the digital engagement of senior citizens by designing specific training programmes and curricula for elder people. These curricula require no prior knowledge of ICT and respect the participant’s learning capacity. The projects starts with teaching them basic ICT skills that help seniors to use the social networking site developed for the project – My Past My Present.

The social network website takes into account both past and present of the elder population and by allowing them to share memories or new events from their lives. As a learning tool, My Past My Present fulfils two main functions at the same time: It allows users to keep in touch with friends and learn new ICT skills by using them in an informal environment. The site is open to individuals but also to community groups working with elder people.

Besides the social network website, Seniors Project developed training programmes (MY IT! and eCert), a Learner’s Manual and trainers resources. All products exist in three language versions – Bulgarian, Italian and English.

Partners from Ireland, Italy and Bulgaria are collaborating within the project, which is funded under the Grundtvig strand of the EU Lifelong Learning Programme. Project coordinator is Fastrack to IT Ltd. from Ireland.

Please find more information about the project on www.seniorsproject.eu. For the social network website see www.mypastmypresent.eu.