Sailing together: the kids from the Volterra hogh school in Ciampino meet the seniors from the Cava dei Selci senior social centre.
Due to the aging of the European population, the increasing digitalisation of society risks becoming a problem. Only one in four people aged 65 to 74 have basic digital skills and are unable to access crucial digital services, such as healthcare or pensions. The report by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, entitled Fundamental rights of older people: ensuring access to public services in the digital society, highlights that existing legislation in EU countries does not adequately address the risk of digital exclusion for older citizens.
The European e-engAGEd project financed by the European Commission, fits into this scenario and aims to improve media literacy skills, linked to the conscious use of information and communication technologies, to counter misinformation and recognize misleading news.
The project is implemented in Italy by the Fondazione Mondo Digitale, which aims to promote and accelerate the digital and media literacy of young and old people, with the methodology of intergenerational learning involving schools and senior centers.
The ability to use digital technologies in a conscious and critical way, in fact, is fundamental to actively participate in democratic life, recognizing information and distinguishing truth from disinformation.
In this context, workshops were held in Marino, in the province of Rome, involving students from the Vito Volterra scientific high school in Ciampino and seniors from the Cava dei Selci senior social center.
“We are very happy to participate in this project”, declared Umberto Porrino, coordinator of the Cava dei Selci senior social center. “For us it is important that older people can learn to use digital technologies, because they are now an integral part of our daily lives. We believe that this project is an important opportunity to create a bridge between generations. Young people can also learn a lot from grandparents, who have a great deal of life experience. I am very satisfied. The lessons were very engaging.”
During the meetings, the participants explored the topics of digital literacy and media literacy, in line with the training program.
The project ended with a big party, attended by students, seniors, and teachers. In an atmosphere of joy and sharing, everyone was able to admire the fruits of the work done and celebrate the success of a unique experience.
The initiative allowed seniors to acquire new digital skills and use technological devices confidently, improving their quality of life and their participation in digital society.
Other photos:
Discover more from European CERV Project E-engAGEd
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.