Gerontological theories

Structure Type: Course
Code: KFG11B009
Level: Bachelor
Credits: 2.0 points
Responsible Teacher: Hietaniemi, Elina
Teacher Team: Palomäki, Sirkka-Liisa
Language of Instruction: Finnish

Learning Outcomes

Students will examine and interpret old age and aging from the multi-disciplinary perspective of gerontology and gerontological theories and models. They will analyse aging on the basis of theory at the level of individuals, community, culture and society. They will learn to explain aging as a multidimensional process of adaptation and development. They will learn to describe different approaches to gerontological research. They will be able to analyse factors which influence the learning of elderly people. Students will know how to seek knowledge of the various fields of gerontology and learn to apply it to their studies, to the practice of elderly care and to its development.

Student's Workload

Will be announced at the beginning of the course.

Prerequisites / Recommended Optional Courses

No previous studies are required.

Contents

- Theories in gerontology and models on aging
- Research approaches and challenges in gerontology
- Physical, mental and social aging
- Aging as a phase in life and development
- Cultural and societal aspects of aging
- Learning and development from the perspective of educational gerontology

Research and development: 2 cr

Recommended or Required Reading

- Heikkinen E. & Rantanen T. (eds.). 2007 Gerontologia (applicable parts).
- Kuusinen J. & Paloniemi S. 2002. Kasvatusgerontologian teoriaa ja käytäntöä, In Heikkinen E. & Marin M. Vanhuuden voimavarat (applicable parts)
- Articals from Gerontologia journal and other professional journals

Mode of Delivery / Planned Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Lectures and collaborative learning

Assessment Criteria

Grading will be announced during the course.

Assessment Methods

Active participation, learning journal

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