Online Basics launched Friday, July 23, 2010 - 09:24

NIACE will be running a series of regional programmes to support the launch of Online basics - short bite-sized courses to help people, who currently lack digital skills, build up the ICT skills they need to get online.

Online basics - which has been developed by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills in partnership with UK Online - will train people in how to use a keyboard and mouse, how to use email and access the internet and how to stay safe online. The courses are designed so they can be done at home, with the help of a friend or family member, in a UK Online Centre, or in any formal or informal learning environment.

The regional programmes from NIACE will support the rollout of Online basics. Organisations interested in running these courses will be invited to find out more about the resources available to make sure that new users of the Internet have access to the best possible learning experience.

Patsy Quinn, a Programme Director at NIACE, said:

"Online basics will play an important role in helping adults to learn about the online world. We are delighted to see a programme like this which will be delivered to learners which reflects their own individual needs and interests. We are also encouraged by the fact that Online basics will be delivered with good quality support and with a range of opportunities for learners to progress to further learning."

NIACE has also been successful in obtaining UK Online Champion grant funding and will be working with 12 partner organisations across the third sector to deliver Online basics targets, as part of its pledge to the Race Online 2012 campaign.