Using ICT training as an arena for intergenerational learning experience. A case study

Abstract

In Norway; the responsibility of citizens’ e-inclusion services relies on municipalities through the administration of se-lected electronic health information and services; these insti-tutions face the challenge of educating to use these health systems. In the case of ICT-illiterate people; the questions about what is the necessary ICT knowledge for basic use and how this content should be pedagogically delivered arose. This paper presents a pioneer intergenerational model for ICT education; in which young generations teach the basics of ICT use to elderly people without ICT experience. A qualitative evaluation of the piloted model in a Norwegian municipality was carried out using semi-structured interviews. The findings highlighted the fundamental role of the young people as experienced ICT users and teachers but also as a decisive factor for course participation for many elderly students. The outcome of the course was noticeable in both directions: most of the elderly attendees acquired basic ICT skills at the same time that young teachers had the opportunity to develop qualitative social values such as goal achievement and responsibility.