Margaret: “Learning how to use a computer and the internet has really helped broaden my horizons.”

Margaret Groome is evidence that age is no barrier when it comes to learning new skills. Although in her 70s, the retired teacher from Doncaster is embracing the digital age. By pursuing her hobby and researching her family history online, Margaret has learnt skills that mean she is now a regular user of the internet.

“I always say that you never stop learning, so I’m always willing to try new things. I first used a computer in the 1990s when I went on a training course as part of my job. After this I bought my first computer and used it for things like writing letters and spread sheets.

“When I retired I started to research my family history and began coming to the Central Library in Doncaster where I could use their online subscriptions to Ancestry.com and Find My Past. I hadn’t really used the internet before, so didn’t know what I was doing, however, the library staff were really patient and helped me. I gradually became more confident and now know how to use the websites by myself. With the help of the internet I’ve now researched my family back to the 1560s.

“As a result, I have found that I have become more confident using computers and the internet and have acquired a range of skills that I have been able to use elsewhere online, like keeping in touch with people and buying things.

“I have friends and relatives around the world who I now regularly keep in contact with via email. It’s a lot quicker, easier and cheaper than sending a letter through the post. My friends in New Zealand have also asked me to learn how to use Skype so that I can video call them - so I’m now on the lookout for someone who can show me how to use it.

“I’ve also researched and bought a few things on eBay. In the past I’ve asked my son-in-law to buy the objects and then I’ve paid him back, because I was unsure about how safe it was to spend money online. However, I’ve been reassured that it is safe, so I’m hoping to set up a PayPal account so that I can buy things myself.

“Learning how to use a computer and the internet has really helped broaden my horizons. It also allows me to keep in touch with modern world. I’d encourage anyone else my age to give it a go and see what there is out there, after all, what have you got to lose?”

 

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Last updated: 13 January 2021 14:41:21

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