AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE SILVER GENERATION AND BEYOND
Recently, the discussion on digital literacy for those over 67 has become central, particularly in light of the economic transformations linked to digitalization and best practices in education. The growth of the silver generation is rapidly accelerating in Europe, bringing challenges not only related to the digital divide but also to the possibility of aging actively by participating in social life and contributing to the community.
But how can we bridge the digital divide and better integrate generations into the digital ecosystem? One effective approach is European intergenerational learning projects, which promote integration between young people and adults in the context of digital technology training.
Digital Transformation and the 67+ Population.
According to Eurostat data, a quarter of low-income households, often including adults over 67, lack access to a computer or broadband internet. This gap is not only technological but also social, as it excludes a significant portion of the population from essential services such as health management and access to information. The EU's Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027 has identified this disparity as a priority to address.
One key tool for addressing these challenges is intergenerational education, where knowledge flows not only from younger generations to older ones but also vice versa. Through projects such as Age:WISE promoted within Erasmus+ programs and featured on platforms like EPALE, it has been demonstrated that seniors can not only be trained but also become trainers for younger generations. These projects aim to create a mutual dialogue between different age groups, making learning an inclusive practice.
European Best Practices: Success Stories.
The intergenerational approach is not just a good theory but a practice already in place in several European settings. Projects using this approach create spaces where young people and adults meet to exchange skills, with a particular focus on the use of digital technologies. The goal is to create connections between generations, fostering mutual understanding and eliminating the prejudices that often isolate the elderly.
In Italy, one model of reference is the EduVita project, which offers technology training courses specifically aimed at those over 67, encouraging interaction with younger generations. These programs promote shared learning, where mastering digital technologies can improve the quality of life for seniors, allowing them to better manage their daily lives and maintain social contacts through digital tools.
A Life Long Learning (LLL) Approach.
A key element that emerges is the need to integrate technology training into a continuous learning path throughout life, known as Life Long Learning (LLL). This approach responds to the constant need for updating required by digital transformations and the evolving labor market. According to ISTAT, participation in training courses by those over 67 is still very limited in Italy, highlighting a gap that needs to be addressed with targeted educational policies.
In this context, international collaboration projects are a valuable resource for developing replicable models. Erasmus+ initiatives are exploring new forms of intergenerational learning capable of transforming digital barriers into opportunities for the personal and social development of those over 67.
The Need for an Inclusive Ecosystem.
The success of these initiatives also depends on creating an inclusive digital environment. Many seniors face practical difficulties in accessing technologies, ranging from non-intuitive device interfaces to the lack of support in learning to use them. This is where training plays a crucial role, not only by teaching technical skills but also by making seniors active participants in the digital society.
Therefore, digital transformation should not be seen only as a challenge but as an opportunity to strengthen social cohesion between generations. Educational initiatives should aim to promote a skills exchange where the experience of the silver generation becomes a valuable resource for society, while young people can offer their technological know-how.
Educational policies need to focus on this point: creating spaces and opportunities where reciprocal learning becomes a daily practice, encouraging active participation of those over 67 in the digital world. This is precisely the outcome expected from the "History Is Us!" Project, thanks to the European partnership between the young Italian non-profit association HUBITAPROJECT ETS and the expert company Glafka from Prague.
If you would like more information on how to participate in digital technology training projects or how to develop a learning path for seniors, contact us now at info@historyisus.eu.