Intergenerational Communities

The authors argue for intergenerational programs based on two contemporary orientations to teaching and learning: constructiv-ist and sociocultural. They provide examples of school-based intra- and inter-generational activities that challenge conventional notions about the capabilities of young children and speak to the learning benefits of collaborative decision-making. The authors offer several specific guidelines for intergenerational program developers and researchers that focus on assessing the learning potential of intergenerational initiatives. They also recommend case studies and participatory research approaches as particularly useful for gaining insight into intergenerational learning processes.