Esslingen in the digital awakening: Mentors fight against isolation!

Esslingen in the digital awakening: Mentors fight against isolation!

In today's digital world, many people, especially older citizens, have difficulty dealing with new technologies. In order to counteract this digital divide, the digital mentors in Esslingen offer free support for everyone who has challenges in the digital world. This initiative is particularly important because media literacy is essential for social participation and equal opportunities. According to the Stuttgarter Nachrichten, the mentors work on a voluntary basis at several locations in the city and help citizens with questions about smartphone use, online orders and data protection.

The digital mentors' offerings include online coaching and personal consultations that address common concerns such as downloading apps and the sensitivity of handling personal data in online banking. In addition to technical support, the mentors also serve as social contacts and conversation partners. This is particularly valuable for people who live alone or have little other social contact.

Focus on equity

The issue of equal opportunities is further strengthened by digital support in Esslingen. According to the Federal Agency for Civic Education, equal access to digital media is crucial for the participation of all social groups. More inclusive media education ensures that people with disabilities and older people also have access to digital information and can use it effectively. Reducing barriers, such as providing information in plain language, plays a crucial role in this.

In Esslingen, the digital mentors managed to take the first important step against digital exclusion. A large number of citizens, like Ingrid Pfannenstein's 96-year-old client, show that it is also possible for older people to learn how to use technology - provided they receive the necessary support. However, the handover of devices without sufficient instruction is often problematic. This is where the mentors come in and offer targeted training.

The importance of media literacy

Promoting media literacy has become increasingly important in recent years, both in schools and in society. Digital media are increasingly being used in lessons, and students must learn to use them safely and evaluate them critically. Initiatives such as “take! network inclusion with media” offer workshops and materials to support inclusive media work and create equal access.

In the city of Esslingen, space is also provided for the mentors so that the consultations can take place close to home and barrier-free. We are currently looking for additional mentors to expand the initiative. Anyone interested can contact us directly at the email address komm@esslingen.de. In addition, registration for the meetings is possible at various facilities and telephone numbers are provided to enable easy contact.

The engagement of digital mentors is an important step in raising awareness of the need for digital education and improving access to digital media for everyone. The challenges of the digital age require collective efforts to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to actively and safely participate in digital life.