An investigation into the Success of the National Library Board's Digital Literacy Programmes and Initiatives in Addressing the Diverse Needs of Singapore's Senior Demographic

Abstract

The Singapore National Library Board (NLB) has made a commitment to support the digital inclusion of adults aged 50 and older with digital literacy programmes and initiatives for seniors, a broad demographic with a variety of needs, interests and abilities. The multiple-methodological research approach used explored the NLB’s digital literacy programmes and initiative partnerships, their content and delivery, best practice (as found in literature), as well as benefits and challenges, and determined how well they meet the diverse needs of Singapore’s senior demographic.

Research found that the NLB is fully committed to supporting the digital development of seniors. Qualitative data showed that a majority of programmes are for seniors in employment, most programmes require existing digital proficiencies, and nearly all are conducted in English. Findings revealed an extensive network of partnerships supporting programmes. Observations uncovered teaching methods and best practice. Facilitator and participant interviews revealed that the programmes' curriculums align with the Singapore government’s digital literacy objectives for seniors, and programmes are highly valued because they occupy time, engage the mind, teach digital skills for self-reliance, and develop strong social networks. However, there needs to be more differentiation for ability, beginner programmes, practical hands-on sessions and ongoing informal support beyond formal learning, as well as improvements to increase promotion and simplify booking systems, and better utilisation of experienced senior digital volunteers.

The limitations of this research were the small sample size of interviewees and the number of observations, as well as the lack of access to NLB leadership for information on the key objectives of the programmes and initiatives, participant attendance and demographic statistics. This study provides preliminary insights, but to gain a more accurate understanding of the success of the of the NLB’s digital literacy programmes and initiatives in addressing the diverse needs of Singapore's senior demographic, further research involving more observations, a more comprehensive sample of interviewees and the full support of the NLB to provide their perspectives and complete data is required to ensure more precise results.