Social Project Planning in the Continuing Education System of the University

Abstract

The implementation of social projects is an increasingly popular and effective practice. The subjects of all age groups can be their target audience: from preschoolers who want to promote their creative potential, young people focused on professional self-determination to middle age persons taking interest in the expansion of their information horizons and opportunities of older people who want to address gaps in knowledge in order to adapt to social and technical changes. The paper deals with the problem of andragogic education as a factor of adaptation and socialization of older people who feel fear and uncertainty in the world that is shifting to the common usage of information technology. The purpose of the paper is analysis and description of the process of educational support with the use of social project planning of a vulnerable group of older people. The novelty is practical results obtained on the base of a pedagogical university when implementing socially oriented projects on the generation of computer literacy in older people. The “Available environment: computer literacy improvement” course allows this social group not only to adapt to ever-changing conditions of life but also contributes to their spiritual and physical longevity, social activity and improvement of the quality of life in general. The results and effectiveness of the social project are evaluated using questioning, interview, and observation before and after delivered lessons. The assessment criteria were formed and subjected to adjustment in the course of project implementation and are based on quantity and quality factors. The main criterion was the students’ formed steady motivation to further independent use of the computer, development of computer skills and practical use. Further demand of the course and findings allowed stating the achievement of set goals.