Mature age workers need careful computer training
It is crucial for managers to be more aware and observant of potential ageist attitudes in the workplace and to assist mature age workers to effectively learn computer usage skills, according to a Queensland University of Technology study.
The data was gathered through focus groups at job network centres in the greater Brisbane area and found that mature age workers could be exposed to inappropriate computer training practices and age-insensitive attitudes towards people with low base computer skills.
The findings suggested that both managers and younger staff could hinder the learning of computer-related skills through a combination of impractical training practices, communication barriers, and a lack of organisational planning.
The older participants said that mangers needed to be aware of ageing as a factor in training-related decisions.
The mature age workers said that the learning of computer skills gave them satisfaction in being able to use a computer competently and creatively.
It also gave them the ability to solve computer, printer, and other associated issues and a sense of empowerment when discussing computer-related issues with co-workers and with friends and family.
