INTER-PUZZLE: Empowering educators through intergenerational learning methods
The Erasmus+ project "Solving the Intergenerational puzzle" (INTER-PUZZLE) focuses on engaging adults, particularly those aged 55 and above, into non-formal educational activities. By promoting intergenerational learning (IGL), the project aims to develop social, linguistic, digital, and other essential skills of adult and senior learners.
What is Intergenerational learning?
Intergenerational learning programs aim to bridge the gap between generations by fostering mutual learning and collaboration. In addition to achieving educational aims, the IGL activities naturally enable participants to gain insights into their own lives and the experiences of those from other age groups.
For older adults, IGL offers opportunities to remain active, share their experiences, and continue lifelong learning. Younger participants benefit from the wisdom and insights of the older adults, promoting a culture of respect and continuity.
Intergenerational learning activities create mutually rewarding interactions where knowledge, skills, experiences, and emotions are shared across generations, fostering growth and potential for all participants involved.
INTER-PUZZLE: Workshops for educators
INTER-PUZZLE project has developed workshops tailored for Adult educators to effectively implement Intergenerational learning approach into practice. The two workshops online for educators covered the following aspects:
Intergenerational learning: What are its principles, challenges, and benefits?
Practical application: How to use INTER-PUZZLE e-booklets in a classroom?
Educational tools development: Brainstorming on creating materials that promote intergenerational collaboration (quiz cards)
During these workshops, educators explored the IGL approach and contributed to the project’s materials development.
Which INTER-PUZZLE materials are useful for educators?
To support IGL activities, INTER-PUZZLE offers to educators:
E-book: stories collected among people aged 55+ who live in four different European countries: Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Italy and Portugal. About 100 participants talked about their life experiences to younger educators.
Quiz Cards: designed to initiate discussions on topics like heritage, nature, and traditions, encouraging participants of different ages to share experiences in an engaging manner. Quiz cards are available in 5 languages: English, Slovenian, Portuguese, Italian, and Czech.
Handouts: structured lesson plans for the activities based on the IGL approach.
These materials can be used by educators, trainers, and learners to initiate and sustain intergenerational dialogues.
INTER-PUZZLE activities contribute to the activation of adult and senior learners through intergenerational learning activities, promoting lifelong learning and the benefits of remaining active regardless of age. The project developed tools for educators, learners, and the wider public to facilitate IGL, strengthening cooperation between different generations.
.For more information and resources, visit the INTER-PUZZLE website.
Hanna Urbanovich
www.interpuzzle.splet.arnes.si
