The Older Adult and Learning [electronic resource] / Roger Hiemstra.

According to recent census figures, 10% of today's population are over 65 years old. It has often been stated that individual learning needs and capabilities decline with age. To challenge this idea, a study was conducted to gather information about older adults, their learning interests, activ...

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Bibliographic Details
Online Access: Full Text (via ERIC)
Main Author: Hiemstra, Roger
Corporate Author: University of Nebraska--Lincoln. Department of Adult and Continuing Education
Format: Electronic eBook
Language:English
Published: [Place of publication not identified] : Distributed by ERIC Clearinghouse, 1975.
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Summary:According to recent census figures, 10% of today's population are over 65 years old. It has often been stated that individual learning needs and capabilities decline with age. To challenge this idea, a study was conducted to gather information about older adults, their learning interests, activities, and obstacles. Four hypotheses were tested through a series of interviews with 256 adults (55 and over) in Nebraska. The interview schedule was tested for reliability and validity. Data were analyzed utilizing tables with frequencies, percentages, and mean scores as well as a crossbreak analysis and t-test of significance for testing some hypotheses. Data from the study revealed a need for more suitable continuing education programs based on the following findings: (1) obstacles to learning selected most often were "don't like to go out at night.""not enough time,""cost,""home responsibilities," and "job responsibilities;" and (2) courses selected as an indication of learning interests included "Stretching Your Retirement Dollar,""Tax Benefits for Older Americans,""Outdoor Flora", "Medical Care in the Retirement Years," and "Laws Affecting the Aged." The study's design, findings, recommendations, and implications of the study are presented. Data collection materials, miscellaneous tables, and comparison data on learning projects are appended. (Author/EC)
Item Description:ERIC Document Number: ED117371.
Sponsoring Agency: Nebraska State Dept. of Education, Lincoln. Div. of Adult Education.
Educational level discussed: Adult Education.
Physical Description:113 pages