Initial needs assessment can be useful for obtaining information about the issues that should be addressed in newly launched intergenerational centers. However, there are few examples of how such ...studies should be conducted. This paper shares insights and lessons learned during a needs assessment study conducted nine months after the inauguration of an intergenerational shared site in Spain. In addition to presenting the needs identified, such as accurate and complete job descriptions, the paper offers methodological recommendations to practitioners embarking upon a similar needs study. The value of needs assessment as an educational endeavor is also highlighted.
Generations need to spend time in meaningful activities to facilitate more healthy interactions. An interdisciplinary team worked together to implement an enriching, intergenerational project with 4 ...year olds, college students, and older adults. College students played an active role in planning/facilitating activities. The overall objective of the research was assessing perceptional change between the generations using pre/posttests with college students, pre-post interviews with older adults, and pre-post teacher led discussions with children. Findings suggest that older adults and college students had improved perceptions. Children's perceptions remained negative with some positive perceptions.
