Suchergebnisse

We are living during a time of rapid technological change. Emerging technologies---notably information and life science technologies---have profound social, political, psychological and ethical implications. Public perceptions of emerging technologies are potentially volatile. The Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor was developed by the Australian Centre for Emerging Technologies and Society (ACETS) at Swinburne University of Technology. It involves a representative nationwide survey of Australians, and provides an annual 'snapshot' of public perceptions regarding new technologies in Australia. The 2007 Monitor is the fifth edition of the Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor. It provides a general account of public perceptions about new technologies in Australia, including trust in institutions that provide information about new technologies. [Introduction]

This report presents a social impact evaluation of 'Be Connected', an Australian government Digital Literacy for Older Australians program. The evaluation assesses the appropriateness, effectiveness and efficiency of 'Be Connected' and aims to inform future policy direction on the basis of the program's achievements, strengths and limitations. Through a mixed-methods, 3-year study gathering insights from the experiences of 915 program participants and stakeholders, the research team found that: - A nationally funded network approach to delivering digital skills support for older Australians works because it empowers diverse partner organisations – from libraries and computer clubs, to retirement villages, aged care facilities and Men's Sheds – to reach more older Australians in their local communities through trusted relationships. - Be Connected has successfully developed the capacity of more than 9,800 Digital Mentors to act as a frontline for digital skills development. - Adaptive, flexible and up-to-date online learning resources act as a touchpoint for Network Partners, Digital Mentors and learners. - Be Connected had a statistically significant impact on participants' foundational digital skills and knowledge, digital confidence, social connectedness and loneliness, and online safety. - Be Connected has delivered a positive social return on investment