With updates, new models, and brand-new tech innovations, keeping up with the rapidly evolving digital world can be challenging. Younger generations have grown up amidst the Internet and its impacts, but for adults, it might not come as naturally.
Several challenges emerge as technology continues to advance. Sure, these innovations are increasing the amount of data readily available to us. But the downside is that they impact our ability to stay connected, access services, and maintain a sense of identity and independence.
Some technologies are not designed with every generation in mind. Small fonts, complex interfaces, and a lack of clear instructions can make a website unusable. Vision impairment, arthritis, and memory issues can all create barriers to effective technology use.
Embracing Accessible Technology
One solution for this is creating more user-friendly and accessible technology. Strategies that digital creators can implement include simplified interfaces, consistent navigation and predictable web layouts.
Accessibility features are also slowly being embraced by Internet builders. Voice commands, screen readers, adjustable settings, tutorials and guides, and support services help everyone get what they desire out of the Internet. Naturally, users gravitate toward the friendliest websites. By continuing to use only the easy-to-use sites, the harder-to-use sites are forced to improve.
With Internet changes come new ways to scam and trick. Due to a lack of familiarity with cybersecurity practices, those without a second-nature understanding of technology can be more vulnerable to online scams, phishing attacks, and identity theft. It’s harder than ever to protect your personal information online.
Building Digital Literacy
Digital literacy training aims to remedy these challenges. The Dark Times Academy is one initiative that seeks to bring community education to critical digital topics. Recently launched in Auckland, they offer a range of online courses that aim to help people become better at navigating the modern world.
“We’re aiming to make learning joyful again – something that, in our view, is much needed in these dark times that we are all living through,” says Mandy Henk, who is formerly the CEO of community education group Tohatoha Aotearoa Commons. The initiative was founded by Mandy and Byron Clark, one of the nation’s leading experts on far-right extremism.
“From understanding the role of AI in the real world and fighting disinformation to an updated take on critical literacy, our courses are scheduled to be accessible to working adults across New Zealand and a range of global time zones, including the US and Australia,” Mandy says.
The Digital Steps free, community-based digital literacy programme has a similar goal. Digital Steps runs in over 200 public libraries, community centres, and schools. For flexible and friendly training to build online skills, visit their website: steppingup.nz/programmes/digital-steps
An Isolated Internet
The Internet is meant to connect us, but it can also contribute to social isolation. If you’re unable to use technology effectively, it can have the reverse effect. These challenges can lead to increased dependence on family members, friends, or caregivers for help with technology. This can be incredibly frustrating! Understanding online privacy is essential to maximising your ability to use digital means to connect with your loved ones.
And it has to be mentioned that constantly updating with technology can be expensive. In this economy!? It’s more likely than you think. Software subscriptions, services, and new devices all have their price.
Planned Obsolescence
Planned obsolescence is a new phrase that refers to the practice of designing products with an artificially limited lifespan so that they become obsolete after a certain time. This can be done in many ways, from using cheap materials or making products difficult to repair to creating software updates that slow down devices over time.
Degrowth Aotearoa advocates for a transition to a less consumerist and more sustainable way of life. Opposing planned obsolescence is at the heart of their mission. Phones, batteries, and light bulbs are just some of the products that often fall victim to planned obsolescence. Printer ink cartridges, fast fashion and low-quality clothes, and new car models are also on the list.
Addressing planned obsolescence starts with education. Buy durable products from companies with strong reputations. Support businesses that offer repair services and make spare parts available. Make informed choices and help create a market for products designed to last.
We must also advocate for legislation. Per Degrowth Aotearoa, in 2015, France became the first country to ban planned obsolescence. The French law requires manufacturers to provide clear information about the lifespan of their products and to make spare parts available for a minimum of ten years. There have been calls for New Zealand to follow suit.
