Gerontology (Live Online)

Overview

The Gerontology course provides an orientation to the psychological and social changes that occur through adulthood and old age. Students will be introduced to basic theoretical models, research methods, and current information on the psychology of aging. A major goal is to contrast existing myths about adult development with the best available empirical evidence to separate myths from realities. Included is a practical emphasis on measures that may be used to successfully prepare for, or adapt to, the psychological changes of aging.

Topics/Learning Objectives

Upon completion of Gerontology course the successful student will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Describe the goals, issues, and research methods used in the study of adult development.
2. Demonstrate critical thinking skills regarding common attitudes and perceptions about aging and old age through active participation in discussion forums and assignments.
3. Explain physical and psychological age-related changes in the sensory systems, reproductive system, and the nervous system.
4. Describe the key age-related issues involving longevity, health, and stress.
5. Analyze how mental health and normal/abnormal behavior are understood and describe the causes and treatments of the common psychological problems affecting older adults.
6. Describe age-related changes in attention, perceptual processing, memory, intelligence, and social cognition.
7. Explain the different ways of understanding personality and how personality relates to age and gender.
8. Describe the importance and challenges of the different relationships of older men and women.
9. Describe the issues and challenges of the workplace for older men and women, including the challenges associated with difference in ethnicity.
10. Explain the developmental process through which people perceive and experience death and loss.