Students Bridge the Digital Divide Through Tech Training

Second-year students in Seton Hall’s Master of Occupational Therapy (M.S.O.T.) program recently partnered with community-dwelling older adults in northern New Jersey to improve digital literacy and promote independence and participation in meaningful daily activities. The event took place over two collaborative sessions that addressed the challenges many older adults face in adapting to rapidly evolving technology.

The students worked with participants who were interested in learning how to use everyday technology like smartphones, tablets, iPads and laptops more effectively. These efforts were designed to support older adults’ ability to connect socially, manage their health and access tools that support meaningful engagement. The program reflected the core principles of occupational therapy by enabling older adults to better engage in activities that are important to them through person-centered, functional strategies.

The participant pool was diverse, representing a variety of cultural and language backgrounds, including both English and Spanish speakers. Some individuals were fluent only in Spanish or had limited English proficiency. To bridge communication gaps, M.S.O.T. students used culturally respectful strategies such as translation apps, gestures and visuals.

Throughout the sessions, students built strong connections, set client-centered goals and personalized interventions to meet the specific needs of their partners. The impact was clear and immediate.

“Thanks to what I learned in the tech program, I can now watch my hand therapy videos at home and even talk to my doctor through video calls,” one participant said. “It has made keeping up with my exercises so much easier and more convenient.”

The program not only facilitated greater independence and engagement in daily activities but also fostered social participation and confidence. “Before, I felt a little left behind with technology, but now I can connect with my grandchildren through messages and video calls,” said another participant. “It’s made a huge difference in how close I feel to my family.”

The coordinator of the senior program reflected on the experience: “It was truly heartwarming to see how engaged and excited they were — learning new skills, laughing, reminiscing with music and exploring the world online,” she said. “I’m so proud of their progress and grateful to Seton Hall’s Occupational Therapy students for making this possible.”

This intergenerational initiative highlights the core values of occupational therapy: supporting individuals through meaningful, person-centered interventions so they can perform activities that matter most to them. Through this partnership, students gained hands-on experience in client collaboration, while older adults gained tools to navigate and thrive in a digitally connected world.

About Seton Hall’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program

Consistently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the top M.S.O.T. program in New Jersey, Seton Hall’s two-year, 64-credit degree combines state-of-the-art classroom facilities with clinical experiences at more than 300 healthcare and educational settings across the tri-state area.

Learn more about Seton Hall’s M.S.O.T. program and its 3+2 dual degree (B.A./M.S.) option.

Categories: Health and Medicine