Providing the benefits of new technology to disadvantaged groups is an aim of South Australia’s City of Salisbury.
Through a program known as the Salisbury Community Internet Access Project (SCIAP), Council is working in partnership with seven local community based groups. They include six neighbourhood houses and the Jack Young Centre for Seniors.
Under the program, people who might not otherwise have access to computer technology can to become familiar with it, in a setting in which they feel comfortable. Peer training is a central plank of the program.
Coordinator of the program, Senior Information Officer, Lin Krust, said it is not just a matter of providing access, but providing it in a way that people can learn.
This means using trainers participants relate to, who understand their needs and allow them to proceed at their own pace.
“Many people who are perceived to be afraid of Information Technology are not afraid of the technology at all, but need access and training provided in an appropriate way and in an appropriate setting,” she said.
“For example, when a person learns computer technology under our program, they are learning from someone who was in the same position just two weeks beforehand.
“Many myths about computer usage are blatantly untrue, such as the notion that older people are not interested in the new technology. In fact, the Jack Young Centre for Seniors was one of the first to take up the Program and one of the most adventurous with it.”
Other groups in the community targeted by SCIAP include unemployed men, people from lower socio economic groups and single mothers.
Lin pointed out that people on lower incomes usually want to find out about its applications before they commit scarce financial resources to it.
For single mothers, the program can include childcare and the opportunity to meet other women in a similar situation.
“People in disadvantaged circumstances get a chance to meet with others while learning a new skill,” Lin said.
“There are many positive social, cultural and economic outcomes.”
For further information contact Lin Krust, telephone (08) 8406 8316.
