FAMILIES are switching onto learning in a new programme.

Making robots on a 3D printer, blogging and creating animated videos are just some of the tools a new approach to digital inclusion in Dorset is using to boost self-confidence and increase employability.

Digital Families Programme engages parents and children in fun ways of using technology together as a family that also supports learning and teaches basic digital skills.

As many as 30 per cent of local families lack access to skills, equipment or funds they need to feel connected and engaged in their communities.

As education and services are delivered online and on tablets or computers, digital skills are becoming essential for families, the council says.

Programme founder Phil Wilkinson said: “The aim is three-fold. First to support family learning using digital devices, specifically taking into account families with Special Educational Need learners. Second, to develop digital literacies and to raise confidences in using digital technology. Finally, we are trying to foster a culture of school and community engagement.”

Phil, a researcher in digital media at Bournemouth University, said the project emerged while he was working with Samsung, the Isle of Portland Aldridge Community Academy (IPACA) and Synergy Housing to explore how gaining digital skills improves the quality of life for people who are disadvantaged.

Learning how to use digital devices and software is an exciting way to learn, and to bond as a family, Phil said.

He added: “When families engage with technology together, the parents seem to benefit from their children’s playful abandon and the children benefit from their parents’ more thought-through and critical approach.”

One of the parents said: “(The kids) literally loved being with their parents. My one, she was always to looking forward to it.

Another parent noticed a change in his son behaviour following the sessions.

He said: “(Using tablets) can calm him down, his concentration can be there. And he's passed on what he learned. He’s taking his knowledge and given it to his cousin.”

Teresa Barton, the digital inclusion project officer for Superfast Dorset and Skills and Learning, Bournemouth, Poole and Dorset is excited by the new programme.

She said: “Too often digital inclusion activities are focused on supporting the older community, which works well for them. But that isn’t making a difference for younger people who need skills and confidence, too.

“Digital learning is not just about using a tablet or software. It also builds confidence, develops critical thinking skills and breaks down barriers for people. Once people are engaged and skilled up, it’s empowering—they have better job opportunities, better access to services they need, better social networks, and better relationships.”

The next steps for the programme are to further develop a package of activities based on feedback from earlier sessions.

Phil Wilkinson said: “We are aiming to run another digital families programme in three locations, including IPACA and NumberWorksNWord’s in Southbourne. From this we will have a final set of 25 activities that will be available online for any parent, teacher, or community worker to use.”

Digital Families is just one of a growing number of digital inclusion efforts around Dorset. As Superfast Dorset makes better broadband more widely available, more than 70 digital champions have stepped up to support those who need help finding their way in the changing digital landscape.

More information is available at digitallyfamily.com. To find other support for yourself or your family to get online call 01305 221048 or visit dorsetforyou.com/broadband/get-help-going-online.