Perspectives in Gerontology

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Use skills in summarising and critically discussing literature, and also your written communication skills developed through the preparation of assessed coursework.
• Summarise key aspects of population ageing, for example relating to its determinants and/or its implications for social and economic resources across the life course and in later life.
• Identify and locate relevant literature through the use of University resources.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives in the study of ageing and life course.

The module will include online lectures on: an introduction to the study of Gerontology; the demography of ageing (UK & Europe); the biology and epidemiology of ageing; the psychology of ageing and adjustment in later life; key theoretical perspectives on ageing and the life course; life course transitions, experiences and identity; the history of the British welfare state and key issues in the development of welfare provision; work and retirement; material resources in later life; intergenerational relations and family support; ageing, gender and inequality. The module will also include one session on 'Library and Online Resources' and one session on 'Essay Writing Skills'.

Teaching and learning methods

The module involves lectures and guest lectures from different disciplines. Learning activities include lectures, informal group discussions and independent study. Students are expected to carry out some reading in advance of each session, in order to be able to participate in discussions.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Module resources. Module resources available on BlackBoard include lecture PowerPoint slides, seminar readings, coursework details, exercises, references and module updates. In addition, resources also include specially ordered texts located in the Hartley Library, copied readings in Course Collections in the Hartley Library and details of specialist websites.

Textbooks

Victor, C. (2005). The Social Context of Ageing. London: Routledge.

Vincent, J. et al (eds.) (2006). The Futures of Old Age. London: Sage.

Phillips, J. et al (2010). Key Concepts in Social Gerontology. London: Sage.

Dannefer, D. and Phillipson, C. (2010). The Sage Handbook of Social Gerontology. London: Sage.

Assessment strategy

Critical Literature Review of 3,500 words (100% of grade)

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External