Using active aging and co-creation service projects to change the attitude towards elders and enhance the competence development of university students from China, Japan and Korea

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the competence development and attitude toward elders after conducting a co-creation project in rural area in Sichuan among university students from China, Japan, and Korea. A total of 59 students from The Polytechnic University, Peking University, Ewha Woman's University, Yonsei University, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan University, and Kyoto University participated in the study. The findings showed that there was a significant improvement in youth development competencies and attitude toward elders in rural area of Sichuan, China. In addition, students also had significant changes in their attitude toward their own aging process. The results of this study provided information for university educator about the importance of educating young generations in particular university students developed positive attitude toward elders. Further, competencies development could be built such a way that they cooperated with elders to contribute to the community