We are convinced that intergenerational learning and collaboration positively affect both individuals and the local community. Therefore, our basic guideline is to join and participate in projects that aim to develop and strengthen generational solidarity. The Chain Experiment in Preschool project was a good basis for our involvement in the project Intergenerational Bridge: Connect to Create, which ended in January.
I joined the project in the summer of 2022. As a member of the international project team, I attended two meetings: in Nazilli, Turkey, and Prague, Czech Republic. On both occasions, we focused mainly on developing the project’s final outcome, namely the digital manual. In addition to basic information on intergenerational learning, the manual includes good practices of adult educators and guidelines for implementing individual intergenerational learning and collaboration workshops. The manual is available in 7 languages, including Slovenian.
We paid particular attention to the pilot implementation of proposed good intergenerational learning and collaboration practices. We captured them on video. The We Love Chess workshop was held at Jesenice AEC in collaboration with a local retirement home and primary and high school. The workshop’s objectives were to encourage and develop logical thinking and transfer various skills and values.
Participation in the project made me realise that every generation has resources that need to be appreciated, transmitted and shared with others. In addition, I had the opportunity for personal and professional growth – I gained a new perspective on things, different problem-solving patterns and stronger foundations for establishing and building relationships.
I invite you to find an interlocutor – a representative of another generation – in your environment. You will discover how incredibly the horizons can expand if we only give ourselves the opportunity.
Jasmina Lika (vgc@lu-jesenice.net), Jesenice AEC
