Asks whether our understanding of problems posed for education in the later years can be aided by current developments in educational thought in the Third World. Suggests ways in which education in the later years can be given the recognition it deserves. (Author/JAC)

Considers education for the elderly an important issue for the European Community. Discusses demographic, social, and political factors arising from structural changes affecting older adult education. Suggests that education of the elderly emphasize self-reliance, communication skills, experience, and life changes. Reviews literature on the…

Reviews concepts of aging, and questions models of the relationship between education, work, and leisure in light of profound changes in life cycles. Contrasts the "training-work-retirement" model with the transformation of paid work and new scenarios for leaving the labor market. Discusses the demand for continuing education of aging populations.…

Reviews research on the relationship between self-directed learning and selected demographic predictors. Concludes that student age may be an important determinant of success at the college level but is not significant in postsecondary art education programs. Finds that education level is a more accurate predictor among older adults. (CFR)

Rapid change in society and an extended life span are gradually invalidating twentieth-century age-related paradigms, creating new opportunities in higher education for serving adults leading cyclical lives.

This brief suggests that Universities of the Third Age (U3As) provide learning opportunities for older adults. Worldwide, they typically take one of two forms. Based on the first U3A founded in 1973, the French model is university based and offers mostly formal courses. Arising in Cambridge in 1981, the British model emphasizes informal,…

This manual is designed to encourage older people to take an active role in local television program production and to design and produce programs that will enhance the quality of life for other older Americans. It is noted that locally produced television offers older people a voice at the local level, the opportunity for making new friends and…

This document begins with an overview of trends and issues in the area of older workers. The overview briefly addresses: the reversal of the trend toward early retirement, growth in the population of individuals over age 55, increased longevity, economic pressures for older persons that lead to work in order to supplement retirement income, low…

Music activities for the elderly can stimulate creativity and help develop independence, self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. This study includes: (1) an attempt to learn the uses of music by and for older adults through an exploration of programs and activities that either have been or currently are being implemented; (2) an…

Sexual attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors evolve throughout life. Today's older persons were socialized in an environment which viewed sexuality as a procreative activity reserved for married persons in the childbearing years, thus neglecting the interpersonal and individual aspects of sexuality. A sexual psycho-educational intervention was…

Suggests that the 1980s will see a trend toward lifelong education and a resulting emphasis on educating older people. Identifies four groups of elderly educational consumers based on their interests and needs, and discusses problems inherent in meeting their needs. (Author/JAC)

Elderhostel, modeled on the youth hostels of Europe, is a national nonprofit organization offering older adults a week-long learning experience at any one of a national network of participating colleges and universities. The history and reasons for its success are described, along with a profile of its participants and an optimistic projection of…

The challenge of involving older adults in education must be met by reevaluating current concepts and developing new approaches. A primary goal should be the creation of a supportive environment that is accessible and enhances self-directed learning. (SK)

Public libraries are a key access point for community-based education for lifelong learners. Libraries link independent learners, materials, programs, and other community agencies, and provide a common touchstone for all segments of the population. The public library and its mission support lifelong learning through the acquisition and…

A survey of older students received responses from 4,461 people aged 60 or over in four European countries: United Kingdom, West Germany, France, and Belgium. The questionnaire had three sections: students' background; information on study methods, time spent, organization of work, and use of study aids; and Approaches to Study Inventory (ASI).…