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

In Norway, municipalities administer selected electronic health information services. These institutions face the challenge of educating to use these health systems and the responsibility for their citizens’ e-inclusion. In the case of ICTilliterate 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 social responsibility.