WEBSTER – Do you still print directions off MapQuest? Are you frustrated by the complexity of a new gift gadget from a well-meaning grandkid? If either of these scenarios apply, you might benefit from CLICK, also known as connecting lives through internet and community knowledge.
On April 3, Lisa Marie Westberg, a digital navigator with the CLICK program, a new service offered through the Northwest Wisconsin Workforce Investment Board, stopped by the Larsen Family Library. Westberg was there to meet with library patrons who might be in need of some help in keeping up with life in the digital age.
Westberg described CLICK as a free service intended to “help people with any kind of digital hiccup they might be having in their life.” She said she has helped clients of all age groups and backgrounds. She smiled, recalling one client who had never owned any kind of cellphone and came to her with a brand-new state-of-the-art smartphone. She said the man was very frustrated and had no idea how to use the device. “He pushed it toward me like he was allergic to it and said, ‘teach me how to use this thing.’” Westberg was able to show him some of the capabilities of the device such as listening to music, podcasts and thousands of free audible books and magazines from a library ap called LIBBY. She even taught him how to make a call and send a text.
Another service Westberg provides clients is how to use artificial intelligence (AI) in everyday life. She introduces them to different AI-based applications that enhance areas of their own personal interest, such as botany, geology, astronomy or even how to get the most out of a visit to a state park. Westberg said a significant portion of the people she meets don’t realize the capabilities of modern devices. “They have no idea that this phone, this tablet, this computer in their hands can connect them to the world in a whole new way.”
Westberg is also mindful to tell clients about the online scams that can literally “pop up” on social media platforms. She pointed out that it’s not only seniors that are targeted by fraudsters, but young people as well.
The NWWIB website describes the overall goal and mission of the CLICK program is to implement comprehensive digital navigation services throughout Northwest Wisconsin. The services are available to everyone, specifically targeting populations that include underserved, under-connected, and low-income households. According to the website, the project is intended to “build confidence and autonomy in device usage for work, education, social health, and physical health monitoring.”
Digital navigators are a resource that provides people with individual assistance, but Westberg said she also meets clients in small groups. As an example, she spoke about a group who were planning a vacation cruise. Westberg demonstrated how they could create chat groups as well as the many ways they could enhance their travel experiences by using their smartphones.
Westberg said the CLICK program also has computers available on loan for people who want to improve their skills but don’t have a device of their own.
When asked who can most benefit from her services as a digital navigator, Westberg said, “I really hope that everyone will reach out. I believe this program can be helpful for people of any age or background.”
For more information about the CLICK program visit the website at nwwib.com/programs/click or contact Lisa Marie Westberg at 715-227-4671.
