Sociology (SOCI) 330
Aging and You (II): An Introduction to Gerontology

This version of SOCI 330 closed Dec. 4/02. To current version.

Delivery mode: Individualized study with audio component.
Credits: 3 - Social Science
Prerequisite: SOCI 329.
Centre: Centre for Global and Social Analysis
Challenge for Credit: SOCI 330 has a Challenge for Credit option.


>> Overview | Objectives | Outline | Evaluation | Course Materials | Course Fees
>> Course Availability



Overview

This innovative course presents aging as a normal developmental process and aims to maximize life potential at every age. Students learn by listening to leading Canadian and internationally recognized gerontologists discuss their research and experiences. Biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging are explored along with the pros and cons of Canadian social policies and programs.

Objectives

Upon completion of SOCI 330, students should be able to outline the "whole person model of aging" and indicate its significance to the study of gerontology in Canadian society and in other societies; present and explain the significance of environments for older people; describe and critically assess the scope and limitations of the social policies and programs which affect the day-to-day lives of older persons; identify and critically analyse the major issues in long-term care innovation and the reasons for dissatisfaction with nursing homes and homes for the elderly; contrast and compare the experiences of aging populations in other countries with the Canadian experience; appreciate the many and varied contributions of older persons to Canadian society as a whole; and direct older adults to the major organizations and associations that deal with issues and work for change as a result of knowledge students have gained from the course.

Outline

  • Program 13 Options in and Design of Living Environments for Older People (I)
  • Program 14 Options in and Design of Living Environments for Older People (II)
  • Program 15 Tomorrow's Technology for Today's Aging
  • Program 16 Developing Social Policies and Programs, Economics/Entitlements
  • Program 17 Social Policies and Programs: Health
  • Program 18 Social Policies and Programs: Long-term Care and Institutionalization
  • Program 19 Social Policies and Programs: Home Support/Community-based Services, Transportation, and Housing
  • Program 20 Aging in Other Countries: Implications for Canadian Social Policies and Programs
  • Program 21 Death, Dying, Bereavement, and Widowhood; Spirituality and Religion
  • Program 22 Exercise, Drugs, Alcohol, and Coping
  • Program 23 Music, Art, Education: Contributions of Older Adults
  • Program 24 Older Adults Organized for Aging; Course Review

Evaluation

To receive credit for SOCI 330, students must achieve a course composite grade of at least "D" (50 percent) and a grade of at least 60 percent on the final examination. The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:

Short Essay Major Essay Mini Proposal Final Exam Total
10% 20% 25% 45% 100%


Course Materials

Textbooks

Baker, Maureen. 1988. Aging in Canadian Society: A Survey. Toronto: McGraw-Hill Ryerson.

Novak, Mark. 1993. Aging and Society, 2d ed. Scarborough: Nelson Canada.

Novak, Mark. 1995. Aging and Society: A Reader. Scarborough: Nelson Canada.

Hiatt, Lorraine, ed. 1986. "Low Technology for Maximizing Independence." Special Issue, Generations 2, no. 1. San Francisco: American Society on Aging.

Other Material

The course materials include a workbook, a student manual, and a set of twelve one-hour programs on audiotape that correspond with the workbook.


Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice.
Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized-study counterparts.


[AU Home Page]
Athabasca University
1 University Drive
Athabasca, AB T9S 3A3
(780) 675-6111, (800) 788-9041
Opened in Revision 2, Dec. 4/02.
Ask AU
This page was updated by G. Zahara