Intergenerational activities have become an innovative approach in adult learning programs, offering unique benefits for both older and younger participants. By bringing together different age groups, these programs foster mutual understanding, break down age-related stereotypes, and create a rich environment for shared learning and growth. For both groups the participation in intergenerational.

One key benefit of integrating intergenerational activities is the exchange of knowledge and skills. Older adults bring a wealth of life experience, wisdom, and practical knowledge, while younger participants often contribute with fresh perspectives, technological proficiency, and new ideas. This blend of experiences promotes collaborative learning, where both generations can gain new skills and insights.

In plenty of institutions such as Senior Clubs, Universities of Third Age or Urban Activity Centres programs are tailored to the needs of participants, that is seniors. In most cases these non-formal curricula do not involve intergenerational activities. Especially in private institutions people in charge of curriculum planning can adopt the programs to the needs of seniors. In public institutions this kind of customization has to be accepted by the institution’s authorities. In order to diversify the programs for seniors in the spirit of Lifelong Learning and implement intergenerational classes into the curriculum, there is a need to:

> Implement joint projects

Youth should be invited to collaboration and conduct various classes, i.a: art projects, social initiatives, or community gardens. Such activities foster collaboration, teamwork, mutual understanding, and achievement of common goals.

> Design programs across generations

Create such programs that appeal to older and younger generation. For instance during technology classes the participants can work in intergenerational dyads, thus exchanging knowledge, skills, life experiences and stories. Therefore, the main objective of such activities is to share life skills and show mutual respect. In fact, both the representatives of young and older generation create these educational sessions.

> Incorporate digital tools

Digital platforms and apps are a perfect foundation for intergenerational collaboration as youngsters are more often tech-savvy. A perfect idea is also to introduce some components of digital storytelling or participatory video, which nowadays constitute a frequently used tool that connects different generations, is well-structured and skill-sharing. It is worth showing seniors various tools for planning, time management or virtual meetings so as to bridge the generational gap, allowing both parties to benefit from each other’s strengths.

> Involve local communities and seek young volunteers

Establish valuable partnerships with schools, youth organizations, or local universities to incorporate intergenerational learning-based activities into your existing adult programs. It can be very inviting for young people to become more willing to involve in such programs. If you wish, you can gather some eager volunteers who can vividly start activities, simultaneously promoting civic engagement and social inclusion.

> Get facilitators familiarized with IL programs

If there are programs addressed to educators working with adults and different generations, share the content with them. Present the learning content in an encouraging way, at the same time presenting its benefits for both generations. These programs should be focused on various learning styles, facilitating dialogue, and promoting cross-generational understanding.

> Adjust the curriculum content to intergenerational groups

Scrutinise the needs of seniors and younger generation in order to adapt your learning content to the needs of both groups. It may involve a deep analysis of shared interests or topics. A very good solution is to give both groups of learners a chance to co-create the content.

> Open up mentorship opportunities

Creating intergenerational dyads, the role of mentor and mentee are more than desired. In such situations each participant has a sense of self-efficacy and usefulness. Such opportunities foster a reciprocal exchange of knowledge.

For more information check Erasmus+ project "Intergenerational Film Hub": https://igifuproject.eu/