Intergenerational and interdisciplinary practices in education. A practical example in Basic Education

Abstract

This article aims at presenting an intergenerational and interdisciplinary experience, undertaken under the project “Interacting with the Difference”, which involved the participation of 20 students of the fifth grade and 8 elderlies. It was expected that this approach would have a positive effect on academic performance of students as well as on developing positive behaviors towards elderly condition. In this case study the evaluation of the academic performance was conducted by comparing the classifications of the disciplines in the 1st and 2nd Periods, and the qualitative assessment was supported by focus groups with students. Quantitative data were described by using the ANOVA for repeated measures and qualitative data were analysed through thematic content analyse. The research showed the benefits of these practices, which enhance motivation and learning outcomes, and foster positive attitudes and behaviors among students towards old age, enhancing citizenship based on solidarity and the community sense.