디지털 디바이드 해소를 위한 노인복지관의 디지털 체험 공간 연구 = A study on digital experience space of elderly welfare center to solve the digital divide

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

(Background and Purpose) The daily life of most age groups are changing rapidly due to the development and widespread use of the Internet. However, the elderly is experiencing difficulties in a digital society, particularly discomfort with using digital devices. This study aims to address the digital divide affecting the elderly and the phenomenon of alienation caused by it. The digital divide can disrupt inter-generational communication and cause psychological difficulties among the elderly. To address the issue of the digital divide affecting the elderly, measures were taken to educate this demographic population. However, since only a basic education was provided, the ability of the elderly to use digital devices and technology has remained poor. In the digital age, the proper use―rather than simple use―of digital literacy skills is required. Therefore, this study examines the need to create a digital literacy space to address the issue of alienation experienced by elderly from the digital divide. (Method) A literature review was performed on the need by the elderly to have a digital literacy space by reviewing theories through references and investigating previous cases and studies. The review also examined the extent of digital use and alienation among the elderly and the empirical evidence that attributes this alienation to the digital divide. In addition, it analyzed the need and experience of a digital literacy education. (Results) The findings of this study confirmed the presence of a digital divide and the alienation caused by it and experienced by the elderly. Even in the use of the smartphone, which is a ubiquitous digital device in daily life, there was a gap between the elderly and the younger generation. The elderly also expressed difficulty in using the kiosk. In the digital age, digital literacy is needed not only to operate digital devices, but also for digital information for various purposes. Without an effective digital literacy education, the elderly will be further marginalized. The number of digital literacy programs for the elderly are growing, and private organizations are also providing education and support to address the digital divide affecting the elderly. The analysis of local and overseas examples of digital literacy has revealed the importance of providing a comfortable space that can encourage a direct and positive experience with using digital technology and devices. (Conclusions) To address the digital divide, the elderly must be provided not only with a basic education in digital literacy, but also a comfortable space for them to learn and experience digital literacy in their daily lives. Hence, it is possible to create a space for the elderly to live a meaningful life in the digital age.