4 Tips for Giving the Gift of Technology This Holiday Season

Posted on: December 17, 2021 | By: Grant Looper | Filed under: Tech Tips

With the holiday season in full swing, many are scrambling to find last-minute gifts and check off the items already on their list. For many, technology and smart devices are a simple but popular gift for family and friends. However, these devices come with a great deal of responsibility, as well as dangers. Keep reading to learn more about how you can ensure your loved ones are appropriately prepped for that new iPad, Kindle or laptop that’s sitting wrapped under the tree.

1.       Teach them about information security

The world-wide web is a useful place filled with information of all sorts. However, it’s also a dangerous place. Back in October (Cybersecurity Awareness Month), we ran a helpful article where we asked Information Security Director Gary Sheehan to give us his “take” on information security. Give the article another read to make sure that your loved ones are aware of the threats out there and how to avoid them.

2.       Help them with setup

One good idea is to get a device you’re familiar with as a gift, so you can help the recipient set it up. Depending on how tech-savvy your loved one is, you might even want to set it up for them beforehand. This enables you to install antivirus or parental controls as needed.

3.       Don’t worry about flexing your tech skills

This isn’t the time to show off how much tech jargon you know. The goal is to help your loved one become more confident with their new device, so make sure you speak in language that they will understand.

4.       Prioritize accessibility

There’s a high likelihood that you have loved ones who struggle with eyesight, hearing, mobility or processing information. It would be best to take this into account before purchasing an item, considering possible difficulties they could encounter while using it. Remember that technology is intended to make life easier, not harder.

Shopping for gifts is always a challenge. Even when it’s for someone you know and love, there are a lot of factors that go into the choice. With technology, it can sometimes be even more complicated, since each piece of tech comes with a learning curve. In the long run, though, gifting a friend or family member with a new device can be great way to help support their dreams and passions. Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Sources: Online Tech Tips, UK Safer Internet Centre

Grant Looper

Grant Looper is the Communications Strategist for Teaching and Learning Technologies at Elon University.

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