The Learner Link is an innovative and intelligently designed program that helps senior citizens and high school-aged children to tap into each other's unique wells of knowledge. Volunteer high school students will help seniors improve their technology skills by teaching them how to use computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets and e-readers. The seniors meanwhile will mentor students in life skills. The program is run by the Cobourg Public Library in the town of Cobourg in Canada.
Cobourg has one of the oldest demographic profiles in the province of Ontario, with a large number of senior citizens living on their own. The Learner Link program enables these seniors to connect with younger generations, while their high school 'tech teachers' can put their tech savvy and social media skills to use for a good cause.
Intergenerational Learning Programs
The Learner Link Lets Seniors & Teens Learn From Each Other
Trend Themes
1. Intergenerational Learning - Connecting young and old for mutual learning and support.
2. Digital Literacy - Improving the technology skills of senior citizens.
3. Life Skills Mentorship - Encouraging senior citizens to share their life experience with younger generations.
Industry Implications
1. Education - Schools and libraries can create programs like The Learner Link to encourage intergenerational learning.
2. Technology - Companies that create products and services to improve digital literacy can benefit from programs like The Learner Link to expand their market.
3. Social Services - Organizations focused on improving quality of life for seniors and providing mentorship for young people can use The Learner Link as a model for future programs.