Learning Together
Interviewed by Carla Colmegna for a local magazine, Il Cittadino di Monza e Brianza, Scientific Director Alfonso Molina explains how Grandparents on the Internet has helped elders and youth to live better during the lockdown. “For over 20 years, we have been training over-60s through intergenerational exchanges: students teach elders to use PCs, the web and technology with the help of experts,” points out the Director. “It’s a versatile model that can be adapted to any context as it’s based on a collaborative and cooperative didactic methodology that is custom-tailored to the needs of adult students.”
“The young and old establish a full and authentic relation that allow them not only to exchange knowledge and skills, but also openly discuss values and life choices. Normally, the courses are held in school computer science labs; in the springtime, we would organise the “Everyone on the Internet” Week, opening schools to all neighbourhood residents. During the pandemic, however, we had to help the elders via phone with projects such as Starting Back Up Together, or on collaborative platforms. Even during situations of temporary fragility, such as with the forced isolation of elders during the lockdown, a weekly call from a young tutor was a godsend. An important appointment,” Molina concludes, “that made the elders feel part of a community that takes care of its needy.”
Grandparents on the Internet
Special Students for the Student Professors
by Carla Colmegna
Il Cittadino di Monza e Brianza, Feb. 17, 2022
