An analysis of social interaction between novice older adults when learning gesture‑based skills through simple digital games
Journal
Universal Access in the Information Society
Date Issued
2021
Author(s)
Springett, M.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10209-021-00793-4
Abstract
This paper reports three exploratory empirical studies with older adults that had little or no prior experience with interactive
technologies. The participants were introduced to interactive technology by playing games on touchscreens, playing in pairs
with the assistance of a mentor. We focus on two principle aspects, the peer-to-peer interaction during these sessions, and
the role of the mentor in progressing the sessions. In the case of peer-to-peer interaction we looked for ways in which players supported each other during interaction to assess the role of peer interaction in this context. In the case of mentoring, we
examined the efcacy of a minimalist approach where verbal encouragement, suggestions or (in the last resort) intervention
are used to provide support to learners. The sessions showed that learners typically could play and learn basic manipulations
independently after initial help and guidance from mentors. We also found that peer interaction, both in verbal and non-verbal
communication and cooperative action was broadly a positive infuence within sessions, suggesting that there is a signifcant
value in building confdence as well as in learning.
technologies. The participants were introduced to interactive technology by playing games on touchscreens, playing in pairs
with the assistance of a mentor. We focus on two principle aspects, the peer-to-peer interaction during these sessions, and
the role of the mentor in progressing the sessions. In the case of peer-to-peer interaction we looked for ways in which players supported each other during interaction to assess the role of peer interaction in this context. In the case of mentoring, we
examined the efcacy of a minimalist approach where verbal encouragement, suggestions or (in the last resort) intervention
are used to provide support to learners. The sessions showed that learners typically could play and learn basic manipulations
independently after initial help and guidance from mentors. We also found that peer interaction, both in verbal and non-verbal
communication and cooperative action was broadly a positive infuence within sessions, suggesting that there is a signifcant
value in building confdence as well as in learning.
Subjects
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
Loading...
Name
An analysis of social interaction between novice older adults.pdf
Size
889.59 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum
(MD5):024ff3803447f693bfb823a9237fa9db