Help others
Even if you're confident using technology, it can be hard to know where to start when you want to help someone else to learn. Our tips and tricks can help.
Now more than ever, it’s important that every Australian feels confident to use technology and the internet.
If you feel confident navigating the internet and using your device, why not show a friend or loved one how to do it too! There are several things you can do to show someone the benefits of getting online and help them to learn new skills:
Don’t do it for them
People retain knowledge and skills better if they put into practice what they’re learning. Taking a hands off approach when you’re showing someone how to use a device or navigating the internet will help them feel more confident at picking up their device and giving things a go when you’re not around.
Use their hobbies and interests to motivate them
The person you’re sitting with will be more motivated to learn how to use their device if you show them how it will have a positive effect on their everyday life.
Does the person like gardening? Show them a gardening website. Cooking? Show them some cooking tutorials on YouTube. Relating skills back to real life examples will also help motivate people to learn more.
Be patient
Patience is key when showing someone anything new for the first time, and using a device and the internet is no different. People learn in different ways and at different speeds. Some will pick it up straight away while others like to go over things a few times to make sure they’ve got it right. Appreciating this and congratulating them on little milestones will help keep people on track and their confidence increasing.
Don’t expect too much too quickly
If someone’s never used a device or the internet before, they won’t become confident using it on their own straight away. As with any new skill, it takes time to develop the knowledge needed to feel good about using the internet. Managing their expectations will help prevent them from feeling like they’re not understanding it quick enough or that it’s too much to learn.
Be aware of tools to help you help them
There are lots of resources and tools on the internet to help people get to grips with their device and the internet. Have a look around and see what you can find to help them broaden their knowledge and increase their confidence.
Top Tip: Check out our summary of resources available to help someone learn.
Know when to seek support, and where to find it
Teaching anyone a new skill can be challenging. It requires patience and time. Sometimes it can be difficult to find enough of both. Fortunately, there is free, local support.
The Be Connected Partner map has details of community organisations in the Be Connected Network that all share a passion for digital inclusion. You can use the map on the Be Connected website to find organisations near you that are part of our Network.
You can also contact Good Things Foundation to be connected with a community organisation in our network, or to find out more about becoming a digital mentor.