The Role of ICT in Intergenerational Learning between Immigrant Youth and Non-related Older Adults: Experiences from Sweden

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper seeks to extend discussion on ICT and intergenerational learning by examining the experiences of unrelated older adults and immigrant youths participating in the community-based “ICT Guides” project in Gothenburg, Sweden. I claim that ICT-supported learning between unrelated older adults and immigrant youths eliminates intergenerational and cultural distances and supports functional intergenerational solidarity. It is also a significant platform for empowerment and reciprocal learning. ICT within intergenerational learning facilitates better interaction and understanding between older adults and immigrant youths, despite language difficulties and different cultural backgrounds, changing it from a catalyst and for intergenerational learning to a means of facilitating intercultural support.