OLDER ADULTS LEARNING ENGLISH AND DIGITAL LITERACY IN COLLABORATION WITH YOUNG ADULTS

<< Background >>We applied for this project to address the educational and social inclusion needs of older adults (56+ years) in a rapidly digitalizing world. Many older adults struggle with adapting to digital tools and learning new languages, which limits their ability to participate actively in society. The project responds to this challenge by fostering intergenerational collaboration between older and young adults. Through this approach, older adults develop English language skills and digital literacy, enhancing their communication abilities and confidence in using digital technologies. Young adults, in turn, gain valuable experience in mentoring and teaching. The project also aims to improve the skills of educators working with older learners. By developing an interactive online learning management system, an English textbook, and a manual for trainers, we provide innovative and flexible learning opportunities that support lifelong learning and digital social inclusion across Europe.<< Objectives >>The project aimed to enhance the digital and social inclusion of older adults (56+) by developing their English language and digital literacy skills through collaborative learning with young adults. Our main objectives were to provide older adults with accessible, high-quality learning opportunities that improve their communication skills and confidence in using digital technologies. By fostering intergenerational collaboration, we sought to bridge the digital divide, promote active aging, and encourage lifelong learning. Additionally, the project aimed to equip educators with effective teaching strategies for working with older learners. To achieve these goals, we developed an interactive online learning management system, an English textbook tailored to older adults, a manual for trainers, and a pocket handbook. Through these tools and training sessions, the project empowered participants to engage more actively in both digital and social environments, fostering stronger intergenerational connections.<< Implementation >>The project was implemented through a series of structured activities designed to support older adults in developing their English language skills and digital literacy while promoting intergenerational collaboration. One of the key activities was the development of an interactive Online Learning Management System (LMS), which provided older learners with digital tools to enhance their English skills in a flexible and accessible way. Additionally, we created an English textbook tailored to older adults, incorporating practical, real-life scenarios to facilitate learning. A Pocket Handbook was designed as a quick reference guide for learners, while a Manual for Trainers was developed to support educators working with older learners.Throughout the project, we conducted training sessions and workshops for both older and young adults, encouraging collaborative learning experiences. We organized multiplier events to share project results and best practices with stakeholders. Four transnational project meetings were held to ensure coordination and quality assurance. Continuous monitoring and evaluation were carried out to track progress and improve outcomes, ensuring successful project implementation.<< Results >>The project successfully produced several concrete outputs. One of the key outcomes was the Online Learning Management System (LMS), which provided an interactive platform for older learners to improve their English skills and digital literacy. Additionally, we developed an English textbook tailored to older adults, designed to help them navigate real-life situations while learning the language. A Pocket Handbook was created to offer quick and practical language and digital literacy guidance, making learning more accessible. To support educators, we also developed a Manual for Trainers, providing strategies and best practices for teaching older learners effectively.The project also achieved significant qualitative results. Older adults improved their confidence in using digital tools and communicating in English, enhancing their social inclusion. Young adults gained valuable mentoring experience, fostering stronger intergenerational connections. The project also strengthened collaboration among partner organizations, facilitating knowledge exchange in adult education. Finally, through multiplier events, we successfully disseminated project results, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact.