I wish we could get together: Exploring intergenerational play across a distance via a 'magic box'

Abstract

It is well documented that ongoing social connection between the young and the elderly increase the sense of well-being of both parties. However it may be difficult to maintain and cultivate intergenerational relationships in which physical, temporal, or social distances exist between grandparents and their grandchildren. This paper outlines findings from an ethnographic research study which explores the nature of intergenerational play and interaction across a distance. Our aim is to understand playful engagement as a means for designing technologies that will support intergenerational play across a distance. The paper highlights examples of data produced by a small number of Australian fam..