Engaging Generations (eGen): Cyber-Seniors
Since 2015, URI has worked with the international non-profit organization Cyber-Seniors ®: Connecting Generations whose goal is to “bridge the technology and generational gap by teaching older adults to use technology.” Each semester, URI students mentor older adults to effectively use devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops.
History
The award-winning documentary film, Cyber-Seniors, was the impetus for the University of Rhode Island Engaging Generations Cyber-Seniors Program. To strategically work towards enhancing experiential education for students, we had been looking to expand our intergenerational programming at URI, so we thought that technology would be the ideal medium to bring younger and older generations together. Using a reverse mentoring model, we saw potential for the program to be a unique learning opportunity for students to feel empowered to help others. We began partnering with community organizations to offer one-on-one and small group sessions, and we have grown the program overtime based on student, older adult, and community partner feedback.
Objectives
The program works to meet three objectives:
- Promote civic engagement and service-learning for university students
- Help prepare future health and human service professionals for careers in an aging society
- Improve social connectedness and enhance technology skills for older adults in Rhode Island