Since one of the objectives of Technology in the Community: a millennium reflection was to create multimedia presentations of the reminiscences gathered for publication on the internet, it was felt that the contributors of the memories should have the opportunity of accessing the material for themselves, on the web.

Most of the participants had not previously encountered computers, and had little or no experience of the Internet or e-mail. They were keen to learn more about this new technology, however, particularly as many had children and grandchildren with whom they would be able to communicate electronically given access to a computer and the necessary skills.

So, as an adjunct to the oral history project, a separate programme was developed to introduce the residents of five McCarthy & Stone retirement developments to the Internet and electronic mail.

Project outline

• a computer was installed in the communal area of each of the five developments
• a series of informal 'lectures' and hands-on workshops were delivered
• training notes and 'homework' exercises were provided
• follow up 'troubleshooting' sessions were arranged
• free line rental and connection time was negotiatied with sponsors to encourage participants to practise their new skills without worrying about the cost

Project outcomes