In 2022 June Kauno trečiojo amžiaus universitetas started implementing the ERASMUS+ KA1 project “Development of competences in sustainability, digital technologies and social activism at Kaunas TAU” (DevCom)
A series of 5-day and 2-day sessions led by guest experts from Norway and Poland were held in Kaunas, providing a broad audience with the opportunity to learn about the latest IT technologies and programs relevant to adults and elderly people, particularly for health support. These sessions introduced participants to training methods and initiatives used abroad aimed at enhancing seniors’ quality of life-especially those living alone-through modern computer and artificial intelligence technologies. The focus was on monitoring seniors’ health, safety, and well-being, while reducing social isolation. Notably, around 100 listeners who otherwise lack mobility opportunities benefited from this training, gaining valuable skills to improve their digital inclusion and daily living support.
Target group:
Seniors.
Special support:
The expert training took place in Kaunas, Lithuania, translations of learning material were done by TAU lecturers and deans, so there were no communication problems.
Innovation:
- Welfare technologies introduced to seniors
- Simple gaming and applications necessary for senior’s day life
- Application of virtual reality to support physical and mental health
- Hands-on demo on Oculus Quest
Projects involving both staff and learners in mobility activities create a strong synergistic effect by spreading knowledge and experiences not only within individual organizations but across a wider network. In this case, the National TAU Association, which connects 54 TAUs, facilitates the sharing of information, motivating smaller and less experienced TAUs to engage in their own Erasmus+ projects.
The training sessions also attracted participants from other universities, such as Vilnius MČTAU, and youth representatives from Italy, Hungary, and Spain visiting Kaunas at that time. This collaborative approach aligns with research findings emphasizing that mobility programs benefit from inclusive participation and cross-institutional exchange, which enhance the overall impact and uptake of Erasmus+ adult education mobilities. The organizers plan to continue these inclusive and networked activities in the future, supporting broader engagement and capacity building among adult education providers.