A New Approach to Bridging the Digital Divide
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the gap between generations has become more pronounced. However, one young entrepreneur is working tirelessly to close this divide through an innovative educational initiative. Jacob Shaul, a 17-year-old high school student from San Francisco, has taken it upon himself to teach coding and artificial intelligence (AI) to students of all ages, including seniors in assisted living facilities.
The Rise of Mode to Code
Shaul’s journey began with a simple idea: to make tech education accessible to everyone. His nonprofit, Mode to Code, started as a small afterschool program at his former middle school, Live Oak School. Over time, it has grown into a 16-person operation that offers weeks-long courses on AI, web development, and video game creation across more than 30 institutions. These include schools, nonprofits, and even assisted-living facilities in the Bay Area.
The program’s expansion to include seniors was prompted by Shaul’s mother, who encouraged him to bring his teachings to Rhoda Goldman Plaza, an assisted living facility in San Francisco. Since then, Shaul and his volunteers have been offering free classes to about 20 facilities, with seven of them accepting the offer. Classes are held once a week for four weeks, and additional support is provided to those seeking further assistance.
Teaching Seniors About Technology
Seniors have shown a surprising openness to learning about technology from a teen. When Shaul and his volunteers arrive in their matching Mode to Code polos, they are met by around a dozen seniors eager to learn. The curriculum covers everything from basic tech lessons to support with setting up emails on their phones. Many seniors are already familiar with AI tools, using them for tasks such as generating obituary drafts or helping with translation. However, Shaul’s tutorials provide them with deeper confidence and understanding.
One of the key goals of these classes is to bridge the digital divide between generations. According to 17-year-old program co-leader Aydin Khaleeli, many people, especially older adults, are left behind due to a lack of basic knowledge in tech and AI. Khaleeli was inspired to join Mode to Code after facing challenges connecting with his grandparents in Pakistan.
Combating Scams and Building Confidence
A major focus of the program is teaching seniors how to avoid online and phone scams. Americans over the age of 60 reported losing $4.9 billion from scams in 2024, a 43% increase from 2023, according to FBI data. Shaul and Khaleeli dedicate an entire week to explaining scam prevention, highlighting the growing sophistication of scammers targeting retirees.
Ed Kaplan, an environmental scientist and senior participant, shared his experience with a friend who used ChatGPT to compose an obituary. He emphasized the importance of open discussions about such topics, noting that shame often prevents seniors from seeking help. Kaplan recounted a story where a scammer tried to convince a woman to put cash into a foil package, but she mentioned the situation to a retirement home staffer who intervened, saving her $800.
The Growing Importance of AgeTech
With the aging population expected to grow significantly in the coming decades, the demand for technology solutions tailored to older adults is increasing. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly one in five people in the United States were 65 and older in 2024, a figure projected to rise. Globally, the number of people aged 65 and older is expected to reach 1.6 billion by 2050, according to the United Nations.
This trend has created opportunities for companies to invest in “AgeTech,” a category of technology and services designed to improve the quality of life for older adults. Well-known companies such as CVS Health, Hyundai, and Best Buy are investing in this space, eyeing shares of the more than $120 billion in tech spending among those 50 and older, according to AARP forecasts for 2030.
The Power of Face-to-Face Learning
Despite his passion for technology, Shaul believes that the secret to his success, especially among seniors, lies in face-to-face connection. This is why his team’s work with retirees has remained local. Geoffrey Washburn, director of life enrichment at Franks Residences, noted that in-person learning opportunities are crucial, especially for dense topics like tech.
At a recent session at Franks Residences, the comfort level of the seniors was evident. They asked numerous questions, from organizing smartphones to what Shaul and Khaleeli plan to study in college. For Shaul, helping seniors navigate their lives better through technology is a rewarding experience.
A Future Focused on Connection
Shaul hopes to translate his computer passion into a career in software engineering, leaving Mode to Code to others who can develop it further. However, he remains committed to ensuring the program continues to thrive. His belief in the power of personal connections and in-person learning underscores the impact of his work.
As the world becomes increasingly digital, initiatives like Mode to Code remind us that technology should be accessible to all, regardless of age. By fostering intergenerational connections, Shaul is not only teaching tech skills but also building bridges between generations.
