Connecting generations by sharing knowledge
Come and get help with your technology issues at Upper Riccarton Library where Riccarton High School students will be available every Thursday from 1 to 1.45pm. During term time, high school students offer help during their lunch hour. In the holidays, the programme is run by library staff.
See our timetable of GenConnect sessions.
The high school students that deliver the programme freely volunteer their time and can answer questions including:
- How to set up and use a smart phone, tablet or iPad
- How to set up an email account
- How to set up and use Facebook or Skype accounts so you can get in touch with old friends
- How to share your photos with your friends and family
- How to use technology to make your life easier.
Listen to stories about GenConnect
Rachael Chamberlain talks to Andrew Jefferson, a teacher at Riccarton High School, about GenConnect. [6MB, 6 minutes 13 seconds]
Customers Olive, Jennifer, and Donald who attend the GenConnect sessions talk about their experiences. [2MB, 2 minutes 19 seconds]
Hear from Riccarton High students Jonathon, Reuben, Abigail, Khizar, Jessica, and Asher who volunteer to support customers during the GenConnect sessions. [4MB, 4 minutes 24 seconds]
More about GenConnect
In 2016, Upper Riccarton Library started a pilot programme in conjunction with Riccarton High School called GenConnect, with the idea of increasing interactions between the younger generations and older adults by providing free technology help. The pilot was a success so it was decided that this year it would become a regular programme.
Technology-oriented intergenerational programmes are a way to breach the generation gap by providing an opportunity for interaction. Students help older adults feel more comfortable with digital technology such as smart phones, tablets or laptops. Adults can contribute by sharing local community history and helping the students learn skills necessary for teaching - empathy, kindness and patience.
Technology is used as a vehicle to enhance intergenerational relationships and to stimulate learning and dialogue, which may result in better communication, understanding and cooperation.
