The Concept Behind Living Scenes A programme of  Intergenerational Learning

Living Scenes

A Programme of Intergenerational Learning in N.U.I., Galway

 Living Scenes is an intergenerational programme of learning designed, implemented and funded by N.U.I., Galway. It is part of the University’s Adult and Continuing Education outreach initiatives. Living Scenes is currently operating in six schools in the western region. The concept of intergenerational learning in a school-based setting with a devised and planned curriculum is relatively uncharted territory in this country and beyond.

As a programme of intergenerational learning Living Scenes seeks to promote and cultivate the enriching relationship that has been established in the course of the programme’s ten year history. This relationship is that of the bond established between older and younger adults in an educational setting. This concept of learning is very new in Irish education. It has been received enthusiastically by school management and staff, local Active Retirement groups, community groups and individuals as being something very worthwhile and of great educational importance. In a curricular context, the programme is primarily focused on developing links between teenagers and retired adults in a school setting as part of the school curriculum and Transition Year ethos.  The programme listens and responds to the needs of younger and older adults in our society through specifically designed media that allows a platform of equal expression for both groups. Strong emphasis is placed on the holistic development of the participants, promoting equality, empowerment and personal development in an intergenerational context.

The objectives are to discover common links between “perceived” diverse generations, to foster and promote mutual respect, and to empower both groups through consultation to actively participate in the development of the curriculum, thus developing a sense of “ownership” of a non-hierarchical nature within the programme. A set of recommended guidelines for the programme clearly define University requirements, modular content, facilitation requirements, timetabling and sustainability of the programme in respective schools. Over the last ten years Living Scenes has developed from a project status to that of a defined curricular programme of learning that incorporates continued development with on-going support and training for the schools involved.

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