# Intergenerational Learning at VSU Highlights Tech Education Demand for Seniors > Two VSU students bridged the generational gap by teaching older adults about generative AI, emphasizing the relevance of technology literacy in today's society. **Source**: valdosta.edu | **Published**: 2026-11-10 | **Type**: article ## Key Facts - Students teaching AI to older adults reveals a market for tech education in aging demographics. - Unexpected engagement from seniors indicates a growing interest in tech among older generations. - VSU's competitive programs like BSRI enhance student skills, positioning them for future job markets. - The integration of AI in creative pursuits shows financial potential in tech solutions for content creators. - Intergenerational learning models may shift educational strategies, fostering collaboration across age groups. ## Summary Valdosta State University (VSU) recently witnessed a novel intersection of generational learning as two students from its Department of Computer Science and Engineering Technology taught a class on generative artificial intelligence (AI) to older adults enrolled in the VSU Learning in Retirement program. This initiative not only highlights the adaptability of younger generations in conveying complex technological concepts but also underscores the growing importance of AI literacy across all age groups. Jacob Bachrach and Tyler Horne, both computer science majors, took on the challenge of teaching a demographic that largely grew up without the digital tools that are now commonplace. Their motivation stemmed from a desire to share their knowledge while enhancing their own understanding of generative AI, a field that is rapidly evolving and increasingly relevant in various sectors. The students meticulously crafted a 90-minute curriculum that included foundational concepts of AI, practical applications, and ethical considerations, ensuring that participants left with a solid grasp of the technology's potential. The context of this initiative is significant. As generative AI continues to permeate industries from marketing to healthcare, the need for diverse demographics to engage with and understand these technologies becomes paramount. Older adults, often perceived as digital novices, are increasingly utilizing AI for creative and practical purposes, as evidenced by one participant who adapted his published book into a video using AI tools. This demonstrates not only the versatility of generative AI but also the potential for cross-generational collaboration in technology adoption. The dynamic interaction between the students and the older learners revealed a surprising level of intuition and engagement from the participants. Bachrach noted that their questions often led seamlessly into the next part of the presentation, indicating a deeper understanding than anticipated. This exchange of ideas not only benefited the older adults but also provided valuable insights for the students, reinforcing the notion that teaching can be as much about learning as it is about imparting knowledge. The strategic implications of this initiative extend beyond the classroom. As companies increasingly seek to integrate AI into their operations, understanding how to communicate complex technological concepts across diverse audiences will become a critical skill. Organizations that prioritize intergenerational learning and inclusivity in their training programs may find themselves better positioned to harness the full potential of AI technologies. Moreover, this experience signals a potential shift in how educational institutions can engage with their communities. By facilitating programs that bridge generational gaps, universities like VSU can cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, which is essential in an era where technological advancements occur at an unprecedented pace. This approach not only enhances the educational experience for students but also empowers older adults to embrace new technologies, thereby fostering a more informed and adaptable society. As generative AI continues to evolve, the need for comprehensive educational frameworks that cater to all age groups will become increasingly critical. Companies and educational institutions alike should consider how they can leverage intergenerational knowledge exchange to enhance understanding and utilization of AI technologies. This could lead to innovative solutions that not only address current market needs but also prepare organizations for the future landscape of work, where adaptability and technological fluency will be key drivers of success. ## Entities - **Products**: Raspberry Pi - **Technologies**: generative artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence - **People**: Jacob Bachrach, Tyler Horne, Dr. Anne Price, Dr. Ahana Roy Choudhury - **Organizations**: Valdosta State University, Mary Virginia Terry Center for Experiential Learning, Blazer Summer Research Institute ## Key Concepts intergenerational learning, teaching technology, generative AI, ethical considerations, real-world applications, learning opportunities, creative pursuits, student-faculty collaboration ## Definitions - **Generative AI**: A type of artificial intelligence that can generate new content or ideas based on input data. - **Intergenerational Learning**: An educational approach that brings together different generations to learn from each other. - **Raspberry Pi**: A small, affordable computer used for programming and electronics projects. - **Learning in Retirement (LIR)**: A program designed for older adults to engage in educational activities and lifelong learning. - **Blazer Summer Research Institute (BSRI)**: A competitive program at Valdosta State University that pairs undergraduate students with faculty mentors for research projects. ## Use Cases - Teaching generative AI to older adults - Using AI to adapt published books into videos - Implementing smart doorbell systems - Face recognition-based access systems - Enhancing understanding of AI ethics - Encouraging creative pursuits through technology ## Frequently Asked Questions **What is generative AI?** Generative AI refers to a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, such as text, images, or music, based on existing data. It is increasingly being used in various fields, including education and creative industries. **How can older adults benefit from learning about AI?** Older adults can benefit from learning about AI by gaining skills that enhance their daily lives, such as using AI tools for creative projects. It also helps bridge the technology gap between generations. **What was the focus of the class taught by Bachrach and Horne?** The class focused on providing a technical foundation for understanding artificial intelligence and generative AI, including its workings, applications, and ethical considerations. **What is the significance of intergenerational learning?** Intergenerational learning fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange between different age groups, enriching the educational experience for both younger and older participants. **What projects did the students work on during BSRI?** During BSRI, the students worked on designing and implementing a smart doorbell and a face recognition-based access system using Raspberry Pi, providing them with hands-on experience in technology development. ## Links - [Read on Welcome.AI](https://welcome.ai/content/intergenerational-learning-at-vsu-highlights-tech-education-demand-for-seniors) - [Original source](https://www.valdosta.edu/about/news/releases/2026/11/generative-ai-becomes-lesson-in-intergenerational-learning-at-vsu.php) --- Source: Welcome.AI | https://welcome.ai/content/intergenerational-learning-at-vsu-highlights-tech-education-demand-for-seniors