They are looking to become aware of what's happening now in technology.
Some seniors sign on for computer courses purely for recreational purposes.
While it is not uncommon to see older students tapping away at the keyboard in a college computer lab, it is by no means the norm. They see that all of this is going on and they are not a part of it. I see people, younger and older, who bought a computer to try it but don't know how to use it. That is what prompts many of them to take courses. Most people seek out programs where everyone is on the same level, in terms of computer knowledge.