On November 28, 2024, WeLearn Limited hosted the kick-off meeting for the CIRC4INC project—"Learning Circle for Inclusion through Digital Tools" in Dublin. Funded by the Italian National Agency of the Erasmus+ Programme, this ambitious 16-month initiative brings together three partners: Università delle LiberEtà from Italy (the project coordinator), WeLearn from Ireland, and Itinéraires from France. As we commence our work on this project, we want to share with you some of the issues and activities that our three organisations will be addressing through this project.

Bridging the Digital Divide for Older Adults in Europe: A Pressing Priority

In today's increasingly digital world, the ability to navigate the internet and use digital tools is no longer optional — it is essential. Yet, millions of older adults in Europe remain excluded from the opportunities that technology offers, creating a significant digital divide. In 2023, 59.2% of individuals aged 65 to 74 in the EU reported using the internet daily, indicating that over 40% of this age group did not engage in daily internet use. This statistic highlights the ongoing digital divide among older Europeans, emphasising the need for targeted activities to enhance digital literacy and inclusion for this demographic (Eurostat, 2024). This exclusion not only limits access to information but also restricts participation in society, from connecting with loved ones to accessing essential services such as healthcare and banking.

The impact of this divide is far-reaching, especially as more public and private services move online. Older adults who lack digital skills are at risk of social isolation, financial exclusion, and reduced access to life-enhancing opportunities. For those living in rural or underserved areas, the problem is compounded by limited access to digital infrastructure. In a society where connectivity and digital literacy are gateways to independence and participation, addressing this divide is so important to ensuring that no one is left behind.

Digital illiteracy among older populations also poses broader societal challenges. It perpetuates intergenerational gaps, as younger generations often take digital access for granted. Bridging this divide can foster stronger connections between generations, enabling older adults to share their experiences while learning new skills. In addition, empowering older people with digital literacy can enhance their quality of life, improve their mental well-being, and promote active aging by enabling participation in lifelong learning, civic engagement, and social networks.

Projects like CIRC4INC are important in addressing these challenges. Through combining innovative methodologies like Learning Circles with targeted support for older adults and the digitally excluded, such initiatives have the potential to transform lives. Supporting older adults with the tools they need to confidently navigate the digital world is not just a matter of skill-building — it's a pathway to greater inclusion, dignity, and equity in Europe's digital future.

Learning Circles: A Collaborative Pathway to Digital Inclusion

Learning Circles are a task-based educational methodology that transforms traditional approaches to adult learning. Unlike conventional classrooms, which often rely on lectures and passive knowledge acquisition, Learning Circles emphasise collaboration, mutual support, and practical application. Participants in Learning Circles work together on a series of interconnected tasks, with each member taking a leadership role in a specific area. This approach promotes a sense of ownership, empowerment, and community among learners, making it especially effective for addressing the needs of adults, including those who are digitally illiterate or unfamiliar with traditional education structures.

The effectiveness of Learning Circles lies in their adaptability and focus on peer-to-peer learning. Adults often bring rich life experiences and existing knowledge to the table and Learning Circles harness this by promoting shared expertise and collective problem-solving. For older adults or those facing barriers to digital literacy, this methodology can create a safe, supportive environment where they can learn at their own pace, free from the intimidation or stigma that sometimes accompanies formal education. Through breaking tasks into manageable, achievable goals, Learning Circles make complex digital concepts more accessible and engaging.

In addition, Learning Circles foster a sense of community and reduce social isolation — key factors in supporting older adults and marginalised groups. Participants learn from and with each other, building confidence and relationships that extend beyond the learning experience. This is particularly valuable for addressing the digital divide, as the skills learned are often immediately applicable to real-life contexts, such as using social media to connect with family, accessing online health services, or engaging in digital banking. The collaborative nature of Learning Circles ensures that no one is left behind, as participants can rely on the group for encouragement and assistance.

For adults tackling digital illiteracy, the Learning Circle model piloted in this project will provide more than just technical skills — it offers a transformative experience that builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging in the digital world. Through focusing on practical, task-oriented learning within a supportive group setting, Learning Circles address the digital divide not just as a technological gap, but as a social and emotional challenge. This holistic approach is key to creating lasting change and ensuring that digital tools truly empower everyone, regardless of age or prior experience.

Outcomes from the Meeting

At the meeting representatives from all three partner organisations came together to establish a shared vision for the project. Discussions focused on the importance of addressing digital exclusion and refining the implementation strategy for the Learning Circles. The partners also laid the groundwork for the initial needs analysis and set timelines for upcoming project activities.

As the project progresses, all partners are excited to play a key role in creating accessible, practical solutions that empower older adults and the digitally excluded to thrive in the modern world.