Silver STEAM

INTERGENERATIONAL EDUCATION FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH A FOCUS ON THE ENVIRONMENT

Silver STEAM is an innovative European programme that leverages STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) and intergenerational learning to empower older adults. It is the natural continuation of the successful Silver STEM programme, which was implemented by SciCo in 2023–2024 with the support of the TIMA Charitable Foundation.

The programme is enriched both methodologically through the STEAM approach and thematically by focusing on climate change, sustainability, and environmental awareness. It is implemented with the support of Erasmus+ and in collaboration with the University of Galway in Ireland.

SciCo designs and delivers a series of hands-on STEAM workshops in Friendship Clubs of the Municipality of Athens, aiming to cultivate scientific, technological, and creative skills among participating older adults. A key component of Silver STEAM is the participation of adolescents in selected sessions, fostering meaningful intergenerational collaboration and mutual learning.

The programme promotes the enhancement of digital, scientific, and environmental literacy, the psychosocial well-being of older adults, and their active social engagement, with the goal of creating an inclusive civic society that offers equal opportunities regardless of age.

At the same time, a qualitative research study will be conducted in collaboration with the University of Galway and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, aiming to capture the lived experiences of participants and explore the social and educational impact of intergenerational STEAM interventions.

Silver STEAM builds bridges between generations, highlighting the richness of experience, the value of collaboration, and the power of lifelong learning.