Increasing Social Opportunities

for
Older Adults Using Skype VoIP Service
PREPARED BY: JUDY BLACK, HEATHER HORSLEY,
TEJU SHEARER, AND KAREN STAUDACHER

Seniors comprise an enlarging

demographic group with an increasing
lifespan.

Approximately 40 percent of elderly

persons are lonely.

Loneliness and lack of social contact have

been associated with depression.

 Computers and
application software can
serve as a means for
connecting seniors with
their families, friends,
and peers.

77% of senior adults say

they would use digital
devices if they had
someone to walk them
through the process of
learning to use the
device and software.

 The purpose of the instructional design is to

increase social opportunities and reduce
environmental barriers for older adults using
digital technology.

The method is to provide direct instruction,

scaffolding and peer interactions, to enable
older adults to successfully complete a
video call using Skype VoIP service.
The goal is using a Mac computer, learners will make a Skype call by successfully
downloading the Skype application, creating a Skype profile, gathering contacts and
making a Skype call to connect with a friend or family member.

1.

Computer based training

program.

2.

Supportive instructions
provided in text document.

3.

Four learning modules:

How to create a Skype

account.
How to download Skype
application to computer.
How to create contacts.
How to make a Skype video
call.

4. Instructor lead training.

MODULE ONE:
Create a Skype Account
Six unit computer based training
model.

Pre-survey determines learner entry

point.

Use of Skype application through-out

training units.

Extrinsic feedback for the learner

through successful completion of
module

Scaffolding is provided.

MODULE TWO:
Download Skype
Application
Five unit computer based training
model.

Learning technology includes:

demonstration, visual aids, and
hands-on practice.

Learner success is measured

through personal communication,
performance, and observation.

MODULE THREE:
Gather Contacts
Four unit computer based
training model.

Learners will build a Skype

contact list by searching Skype
existing user database.

Learners will view a video and

demonstration to enhance prior
knowledge.

Cognitive strategy combines

intrinsic and extrinsic feedback.

MODULE FOUR:
Make Skype call
Four unit computer based
training model.

Learners will complete a Skype

video call to a recipient of
choice.

Learners will use checkbox

type checklist for recall
prompts.

Learner success is measured

through personal
communication and
performance observation.

ASSESSMENTS
All learners are pre-surveyed prior to
participation in training program to
establish baseline of participants.
Baseline of participants determines
entry into training modules.
Scaffolding is provided to students.

Formative assessments include

performance, observation, personal

communication, selected response.

Summative assessments include

performance and post-survey, and

personal communication.

SKYPE TRAINING
FOR SENIORS
Reunite a senior with their love
ones!

Presented by:
Judy Black, Heather Horsley, Teju
Shearer, and Karen Staudacher.

For more information contact:

Mary is reunited with her sister after 30 years

using Skype VoIP service.