ACCUMULATIVE LEARNING PROCESSES: OLDER INDIVIDUALS APPROPRIATING SMARTWATCHES

摘要

Pervasive digital technologies follow a fast innovation path. Thus, the appropriation of new digital devices follows an accumulative learning process. Adult individuals build up gradually their digital skills, mainly through informal learning processes, in response to everyday life particular goals.Empirical information comes from a one-year research project. We delivered five smartwatches to analyze the processes of appropriation and domestication in the long term. Participants are members of a seniors’ learning club in Barcelona.Key findings are in line with empirical evidence regarding informal learning processes associated with new digital technologies, which are valid for any age: (a) Peers are relevant sources of information, as knowledge is shared among those who have similar devices and similar interests. (b) The personal network is a source of knowledge sharing. Finally, (c) personal interests define what individuals (do not) want to learn.