Communication Community in the Prefigurative World

Abstract

In the contemporary world, communication goes far beyond the well-known traditional written or spoken forms. For today’s digital users, these have become insufficient, as using them, they cannot express their thoughts fully. The youth that has developed its own language, has become more hermetic, but not because it rejects other generations. The reason is the inability of older generations to understand the new ways of communication. Seniors find it challenging to learn how to use new technologies and stay up to date with trends. Although young people are able to understand them, the older generation cannot keep up with the news and stays excluded. The lack of mutual understanding results in weaker bonds. Once again, it is possible to observe ICT as a contemporary key competence essential for an adequate, mutually comprehensible exchange of messages. The best way to connect two generations in this aspect is informal education, especially one focusing on intergenerational activities, which will not only reduce the exclusion of a social group such as seniors but will also let them to develop their critical thinking skills, which in the age of the Internet are crucial. Bringing up both generations in two different ‘normalities’ does not make any of them inferior but simply different. Investing in education, the desire for self-development and learning about the culture of different generations will not only open people’s minds but will also have a positive impact on the development of intergenerational solidarity and mutual understanding.