Describes recommended and tested strategies for teaching a first-level course on the demography of aging. Provides illustrations of the range of perspectives used to teach the subject in the context of the sociology of aging. Recommends using primary sources and includes a list of resource materials. Includes examples of student projects. (NL)

Examines the use of life histories as a method for explaining successful aging patterns. Describes a life-history research project in which undergraduates personalize material learned in social gerontology courses, integrating the life experience and theories. Sensitizes students to the impact of social forces on successful aging. Argues this…