Enhancing E-Learning in Old Age.

The rapidly growing older population has led researchers to further investigate the cognitive domains of intelligence, learning, memory and attention, which normally change during ageing, and their implications for maintaining a good quality of life (Simpson, Camfield, Pipingas, Macpherson and Stough, 2012; Williams and Kemper, 2010). Universities of the Third Age offer education programs aimed at promoting psychological and social well being. There are a range of stereotypes about older people and their lifelong learning habits; for example, that they have low or no interest, experience anxiety or lack self-confidence (Chang, McAllister and McCaslin, 2014; Morrell, Mayhorn and Echt, 2004). These stereotypes are out of touch with reality. While there is general agreement in the literature that online educational programs can be effective interventions that foster intellectual stimulation and personal fulfilment (Gonzalez, Ram rez and Viadel, 2012, 2015; Goodwin, 2013; Wandke, Sengpiel and Sonksen, 2012). Older people take more time to learn; make more mistakes and need more support.