Technology and lack of transport biggest obstacles for older learners

MODERN technology and a lack of suitable rural transport are the biggest obstacles to older people returning to education, research has found.

The study for national adult learning association AONTAS focused on the views and needs of learners aged over 50 and providers of courses aimed at them.

The biggest area of demand among older people is for information and communications technology education, ranging from how to use a mobile phone, through to basic computer skills and web design. Many feared being left behind by modern technology or discriminated against because of a lack of knowledge.