POSTER
Social Integration and Quality of Life: Benefits of a University Inter-Generational
Program in Valencia (Spain)
1
Julian Montoro-Rodriguez, Ph.D.
(Kent State University)
And
Sacramento Pinazo Hernandis
(University of Valencia)
Introduction: The University of Valencia (Spain) initiated during the academic year of
1999-2000 an intergenerational program entitled “
Nau Gran
” for older adults of age 55 years
and over. The main objective of this intergenerational program is to encourage contact between
generations, in particular between young and older adult students. The structure of the
program allows older adults to attend classes, collaborate in research projects, and share
facilities and resources at the University. Therefore the program provides a unique opportunity
to increase the level of interaction and communication between young and older adult students.
The main motivation for older adult students applying to the “
Nau Gran
” seems to be not the
pursue of a University degree in order to engage in a professional activity, but rather the
involvement with an institution that represent cultural and scientific knowledge and innovation.
The program allows older adults to enroll as students at the University and be able to share
with younger students the instruction and academic activities. Older adults initially receive
instruction from specific courses directed to them within seven distinct itineraries or programs
(Psychology, Art History, Humanities, Geography and History, Health, Social Sciences, and
Sciences), and then they attend general classes with students at the University. This specific
intergenerational action allows older adults who obtained their degree many years ago, and
those who did not completed their programs or could not attend the University before, to have
a direct experience of the University life, including instructional and general activities.
1
Poster Presentation at the American Sociological Association (ASA) Meeting, Atlanta August 16-19, 2003.
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