New research will investigate how the arts and culture sector could help older people to engage with digital services.
The use of digital technology has become increasingly prominent in the arts and culture sector and is a useful tool for reaching people who may have traditionally been excluded from accessing and enjoying such content and experiences.
However, the increased use of digital brings challenges. Even the most inclusive digital activities may struggle to engage individuals, particularly older people, who are digitally excluded or make limited use of technology.
Existing research suggests the arts and culture sector has the potential to play an important role in promoting digital inclusion and motivating individuals to use digital. However, the extent to which this is happening remains unclear and needs further investigation.
Dr Sharon Wagg and Dr Pam McKinney with assistance from Laura Woods at the University of Sheffield are exploring how creative digital arts and culture activities can be a first step to engaging with a wider range of digital tools, technology and services, for older people who may be reluctant internet users. As research has previously shown, providing digital access alone is not enough. This qualitative research project centres on capturing creative digital activities offered by organisations and the creative digital practices developed by individuals and older people, that enable enjoyment and further use of digital in everyday life.
Working in collaboration with 100% Digital Leeds and a range of arts and culture and community organisations in the area, the project will produce research and a toolkit to share learning from these organisations about success factors, how to overcome barriers and how to make a positive impact on digital inclusion through arts and culture and creative practices. This toolkit will help similar organisations nationally to adopt these practices and will encourage and support greater involvement of arts and culture within digital inclusion programmes.
"It is an absolute pleasure to be leading this Arts Council England funded project and collaborating with the amazing team at 100% Digital Leeds”, says Dr Sharon Wagg, Lecturer at the University of Sheffield.
“We look forward to exploring the role that culture, arts-based activities and creativity can play in supporting digital inclusion, and sharing our research findings."
Jason Tutin, Head of 100% Digital Leeds said “We are delighted to be involved in this cross-sector partnership project. We’re looking forward to creating a Toolkit that will sit alongside the research findings from University of Sheffield.
“Together, we hope these resources will explain why and how stakeholders should build arts and culture into their digital inclusion programmes, adding to the evidence base for Arts Council England. This will help to make the case that arts and culture can be an important first step on the road to digital inclusion, motivating older people to engage with a wider range of digital tools, technology, and services.”
Owen Hopkin, Director of New Technology & Innovation for Arts Council England said “Digital exclusion prevents people from fully participating in everyday life – from accessing essential services to engaging with creativity and culture. We know that culture can be a powerful ‘hook’ for those taking their first steps with digital, opening the door to confidence, connection and opportunity. Until now, however, we’ve lacked the evidence to show just how impactful this can be.
With the publication of the Government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, this project couldn’t be more timely. It will provide vital evidence and serve as a strong reminder of the role that culture and creativity can play in tackling digital exclusion. We’re proud to be supporting this work, which draws on the knowledge and expertise of the University of Sheffield and 100% Digital Leeds. I’m excited to see the findings – and particularly the development of a practical toolkit that will help embed culture and creativity into digital inclusion initiatives across the country.”