2.4 Intergenerational dialogue
One form of intergroup contact particularly appropriate for addressing climate justice-related topics in teaching and learning settings (and beyond) is intergenerational dialogue. Dialogue between generations can be an effective way of exploring intergenerational injustice while also enhancing adult-youth partnerships. Intergenerational dialogue can challenge the dominance of adults as the only group with a voice and a stake in addressing climate change, and can develop patterns of interaction with young people, supporting their speaking, listening, thinking and relationship development, contributing to knowledge-building and nurturing links between communities. For the adults involved, intergenerational dialogue can support empathetic understanding and an awareness of multiple perspectives on key issues regarding climate change. In addition, all parties involved gain the opportunity to collaborate in sharing ideas and planning for action.
Intergenerational dialogue is also an important part of climate-related action beyond the formal classroom, with opportunities available for young people to get involved in climate change-related spaces and discussions typically open only to adults, by:
- joining relevant organisations as members or as core staff
- becoming members of governing bodies or advisory groups
- getting involved in youth-led grassroots organisations and advocacy alliances
- participating in climate cafés
- engaging with decision-makers by getting involved in youth-led political bodies. In the UK these include the UK Youth Parliament [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] and local Youth Councils. Similar bodies exist in other countries.
Some young people may take the initiative to participate in these spaces and discussions. Educators can also perform an important role in supporting such activity, both by sharing information about the types of opportunity available and by supporting the development of relevant skills, for example those related to language, influence and argumentation.