Photographs, words and a surrealist game: devising a visual literacy methodology in a University of Third Age

Universities of the Third Age first emerged in France in the 1970s. With the aim of promoting active and healthy ageing, this educational and social initiative offers accessible courses for older people. In this article, we present and analyze a case study of a photography workshop held at the Universidade Alcântara Senior [Alcântara Senior University] in Lisbon, which was designed and conducted by the author. Drawing on the participants’ relationship with the urban space of a city undergoing significant spatial and structural changes, the article examines the specific pedagogical methodology devised for this initiative, discussing the outcomes of the collective work produced by the participants. The aim is to grasp elements of the group’s visuality and explore how they can raise awareness of conflicts in urban spaces. We conclude that an approach to visual literacy through photographic practices holds great potential for addressing the concerns of older adults regarding the use, perception, and enjoyment of urban space.