THREAD: @Storythings has been working with @TCMargate to prototype accessible online learning formats for the over-65s. Here is some of what we learnt. If you work with that age group, you might find it interesting (thanks to @TNLComFund @wethecatalysts @TechForGoodCAST)

The over-65s age group values learning throughout their lives. Naturally quizzes are a big hit: shows like University Challenge, Only Connect, Countdown & Mastermind.

YouTube is also valuable for learning, whether to expand on hobbies or learn something new, like this 66-year old resident of @ThanetCouncil, who learns art via Procreate, taught online by @lisabardot.

Another format they like are crime shows/police procedurals, Scandi ones especially. Over-65s in @ThanetCouncil are big fans of shows like Breaking Bad, Borgen, The Bridge, Dexter, Ozark. They like the intellectual challenge (also ties in with their loves of quizzes!)

Travel is a big part of life for the over-65s. They've missed it since COVID-19 hit. They make up for this with travel documentaries, though many used to watch them even before the pandemic as a source of inspiration for their travels.

Cookery shows that take you around the world are another type of content they like, even if they aren't a big fan of cooking or celebrity hosts! 'Travelling without travelling', as this 68-year-old told me.

The over-65s generally like making things, there is an overall love for arts and crafts. Crochet, knitting, but also painting. They like makers, and often search them out on places like YouTube, or read about them in magazines. I like this quote from one of our interviewees.

They like community experiences, and many are members of book clubs. One even set up her own community library outside her house. Zoom is a stand-in for some clubs, but not all over-65s in @ThanetCouncil like it. They'll get back together in person when it's allowed.

WhatsApp is one of the ways they chat about content they like in the age of COVID, though it's never their first choice (in person trumps it all). Facebook groups are another, where they're a member of one. But also writing letters! 'A dying art', as one interviewee said.

. @Storythings came up with a couple of neat formats and tested them with this age group based on these insights, thanks to @matlock @Martenstyn. If you'd like to know what they were, check out @TCMargate Weeknotes! https://gdack.medium.com  - it's been such a fun project!