AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

- to understand the cultural perspectives of different age groups through practices and opportunities for intergenerational exchange; - to learn the methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation by applying qualitative techniques in studies about the senior population

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES (DETAIL)

The laboratory aims to:

• develop an understanding of generational differences in values, lifestyles, and cultural practices;
• encourage sociological reflection on intergenerational relationships and dialogue;
• introduce students to the main qualitative research techniques used in the study of the senior population;
• develop basic skills in the observation, collection, and interpretation of qualitative data related to ageing.

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the laboratory, students will be able to:

• Knowledge and understanding
  • recognize the main generational differences within the adult and senior population;
  • understand the role of cultural practices and intergenerational relationships in ageing processes;
  • know the main qualitative techniques used in research on older populations.
• Applying knowledge and understanding
  • use simple qualitative tools to analyse experiences and social practices related to ageing;
  • interpret qualitative materials concerning the senior population;
  • critically discuss stereotypes and social representations of old age.
• Communication and reflective skills
  • participate in discussion and comparison activities on intergenerational topics;
  • use basic sociological terminology related to ageing and qualitative research.

TEACHING METHODS

Face-to-face meetings will be organized in the form of guided practical experiences on the topics addressed. According to the students’ degree programme background, thematic groups will be organized focusing on educational, social work, and product design issues.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The laboratory activities will address the following discussion topics:

• guided analysis of qualitative materials concerning the senior population;
• discussion of intergenerational cases and situations;
• critical reflection on vulnerability, participation, and cultural practices in ageing;
• final group feedback and discussion.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Students are advised to read the following volume:

Poli, S., Giannoni, P., Moretti G. (2026) “Età, stigma e vulnerabilità: comprendere e contrastare l’ageismo nella società che invecchia. I risultati da una ricerca in Liguria”, Genova University Press.

The volume is freely available on the website of the Inequality: Inequalities and Social Policies series published by Genova University Press.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Group work presentation

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Assessment:

• Oral presentation of a group project on the topics addressed during the laboratory;
• Collective discussion of the analysed materials and activities carried out;
• Evaluation of active participation in laboratory activities and group work;
• Evaluation of the ability to apply sociological concepts to the analysis of ageing and intergenerational relations.

FURTHER INFORMATION

All students are invited to periodically consult the page of this course on the AulaWeb e-learning portal (accessible from the University website or at: http://www.aulaweb.unige.it/). All information and materials relating to this course are published exclusively on this site.