GenerationLink Set-Up Instructions

Getting Started

GenerationLink is a service-learning program that gives students the chance to make a difference in their community while meeting curriculum requirements. In six sessions, students will teach seniors how to use the Internet to access e-mail, news and entertainment.

It's easy to integrate this program into existing lesson plans, but it will take a little advance planning. Just follow these easy instructions to get started!

EarthLink provides:

Schools provide:

Step 1: Obtain School Administration Approval

Time frame: At least two months before program launch

1. Print out the lesson overviews and corresponding student/senior worksheets at www.scholastic.com/generationlink for school administrators to review.
2. Provide an overview of the educational benefits of the program. Suggested language may include: "This unique, nationwide program is standards-based and meets core curriculum requirements. I intend to tie in this program to my current learning goals. Students will complete journal assignments that support critical thinking, and they will reflect on their relationships, interactions, and dialogues with senior citizens."
3. Include testimonials (PDF) from past GenerationLink participants.

Step 2: Select Student Participants

Time frame: At least one month before program launch

1. Collect the names and e-mail addresses of ten students who would like to participate in the GenerationLink program.

Step 3: Select Senior Participants

Time frame: At least one month before program launch

1. Find additional senior resources in your area by doing a brief search of your local county or city government site for senior centers in your area.
2. Print out the Senior Center Flier (PDF) and fill in your contact information.
3. Contact the Activities Director at your local AARP chapter or your local senior center and provide three copies of the Senior Center Flier. (Stay in touch with the Activities Director. You may want to set up an appointment to visit the center to explain more about the program.)
4. Collect the names and phone numbers of up to ten seniors who would like to participate in the GenerationLink program.
5. Pair one senior with one student (up to ten pairs).

Step 4: Set Up the Computers

Time frame: At least three weeks before program launch

1. Submit the request form for a complimentary year of EarthLink software, including 10 e-mail accounts for each student/senior pair.
2. EarthLink will e-mail you a User ID and Password. Work with your school's computer lab to install EarthLink software onto each computer and configure each computer with its own unique e-mail address. Once you have your User ID and Password, EarthLink software can be downloaded at www.earthlink.net/home/software.
3. If you require additional assistance, contact EarthLink at [email protected] or toll-free at 1-888-855-7907.

Computer Requirements:
- One computer per student/senior pair
- PCs recommended
- Internet connection required (Optimal: LAN, DSL, cable modem, satellite or wireless connection)
- Operating System: Windows 98 or above; for Macintosh, OSX or above

General System Requirements for Windows:
- Windows 98, Windows 98SE*, Windows Me, Windows 2000 or Windows XP (Home and Pro)
- Pentium 200 MHz or higher
- 233 MHz recommended for XP machines 64MB RAM**

General System Requirements for Macintosh:
- Macintosh OSX (v10.1.2 and higher)
- Power PC G3 or higher processor
- 128 MB RAM
- 30 MB free hard disk space