Media contributions
1Media contributions
Title Intergenerational learning: Challenging stereotypes and supporting social connection Degree of recognition International Media name/outlet Monash LENS Media type Web Country/Territory Australia Date 23/11/23 Description The combination of intergenerational art, movement and Indigenous cultural connections has been relatively overlooked when it comes to wellbeing.
Participating in communal art and movement improves social connections, wellbeing, and creativity while being an enjoyable activity for all.
Our project supports the Australian government’s National Cultural Policy, Revive: A Place for Every Story, A Story for Every Place, by recognising and respecting the foundational centrality of First Nations knowledge in Australian arts, culture and education, and the importance of nurturing and celebrating Indigenous knowledge-holders as talented leaders and creators.
There are few opportunities in schools and universities that enable generations to learn together. We separate generations for schooling from a very young age, and establish an expectation of age-appropriate education that persists in all forms of learning.
Research shows that one in three Australians have indicated they’re lonely, especially since COVID 19. Older people (defined by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare as 65-plus) often report feelings of social isolation and loneliness.
Research suggests that many face barriers to access and participate in collaborative activities that may enhance feelings of wellbeing ,such as joining informal group exercise classes or participating in creative events.
Similarly, studies report there’s been an increase in loneliness among youth. As a result, older and young people are less likely to engage in activities that offer social connections and to be together physically.
Monash University students – including preservice teachers and occupational therapy students – are uniquely situated to learn how to bring together older members of the community and younger generations to engage in art, movement, learning, and being together.
In response to findings that highlight loneliness in various corners of Australian society, the We are Well: Intergenerational art-moving-wellbeing project represents a partnership between Indigenous artists, Monash University’s Faculty of Education, the Rehabilitation, Ageing, and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre at the University, McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery, University of the Third Age Mornington, Rosebud-Rye Rotary, and local primary school children.
It aims to create a space for intergenerational learning that challenges stereotypes and supports social connection and feelings of wellness more broadly. This is evident in the following reflection from a 10-year-old participant:URL https://lens.monash.edu/@education/2023/12/07/1386323/intergenerational-learning-challenging-stereotypes-and-supporting-social-connection Persons Geraldine Burke, Megan Adams, Laura Alfrey, Aislinn Lalor, Keith Hill, Priscilla Pettengell
Keywords
- intergenerational learning
- Indigenous artists
- Indigenous cultural connections
- well-being
- community partnerships
- art-reach
- Wayapa Wuurk
- McClelland Sculpture Park