Spotlight On

Intergenerational Learning

Have you seen Old People's Home for Teenagers? Well, we are going to start a project like this next term. 

Have a look here, if you haven't seen it before -  Old People's Home For Teenagers : ABC iview

Anson Street School will engage in an Intergenerational Learning Program with Orange Grove Care Community commencing in Term 2. Students from Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) will engage weekly with a group of residents at Orange Grove to learn together, enjoy purposeful discussions and activities for two terms. These activities are based on school curriculum subjects including English, History, PDHPE, as well as cultural events and topics that are meaningful to both generations.

The Australian Institute for Intergenerational Learning reports participation and discussions with senior adults will benefit students by: 

• increasing their vocabulary;
• improving conversational and language skills;
• fostering socio-emotional learning;
• Encouraging non-verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

Teachers and parents of past participants have noted improvements in behaviour and increases in positive mood have been significant due to these interactions. These interactions help improve the mental health and wellbeing of all participants. All these elements will also assist students when in their class, relationships, and workforce.

The foundations of this program come from research about co-located intergenerational activities by the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Learning, the Intergenerational Care Project (Griffith University) and other academic institutions in the USA, Europe and Asia. 

Ms Edwina Brennan

Skills Development Officer and Project Lead