SOC C120: Introduction to Aging Studies
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Top Code | 220800 - Sociology |
| Units | 3 Total Units |
| Hours | 54 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 54) |
| Total Outside of Class Hours | 0 |
| Course Credit Status | Credit: Degree Applicable (D) |
| Material Fee | No |
| Basic Skills | Not Basic Skills (N) |
| Repeatable | No |
| Grading Policy | Standard Letter (S),
|
| Local General Education (GE) |
|
| California State University General Education Breadth (CSU GE-Breadth) |
|
Course Description
A multidisciplinary overview of the biological, psychological, and sociological aspects of the aging process. Enrollment Limitation: AGNG C120; students who complete SOC C120 may not enroll in or receive credit for AGNG C120. Transfer Credit: CSU; UC: Credit Limitation: PSYC C170, AGNG C170 and SOC C120 combined: maximum credit, 1 course.
Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)
- Apply valid research principles in the interpretation and application of sociological theories and principles of aging.
- Interpret and apply sociological theories and principles of aging to determine their impact on and implications for the individual and society as a whole.
- Interpret directions, policy, and regulations and communicate the multidisciplinary viewpoints of the aging process.
Course Objectives
- 1. Present and apply major theories in the field of aging.
- 2. Assess impact of demographics, policy, culture, societal expectations, and environment on the aging process.
Lecture Content
Lifespan Development Aging is a continuation of the lifespan processes begun at birth Stability and change are both part of lifespan development Lifespan Around the World Optimal Quality of Life Quality of life is rooted in early health practices Restorative and rehabilitation programs to improve adult function and quality of life Poverty and its effects Person-Environment Interaction How an aging person constantly interacts with their environment Modifying the environment older adults to compensate for personal changes and to make the environment better fit their needs Cross-Culture Factors Similarities and differences exist among societies and among ethnic groups within societies How cultures can learn from each other as they cope with the changing age structure of society How Aging is Studied Scientifically studying the aging process Research methodology and the certainty of knowledge in gerontology Access to Resources in a New Age Changing structures of population caused by dropping birth rates, declining infant mortality, migration, and increased lifespan Questions of allocation of resources, artificial prolongation of life, retirement age, and other issues raised by increasing proportion of older adult among the population
Method(s) of Instruction
- Lecture (02)
- DE Online Lecture (02X)
- Video one-way (ITV, video) (63)
Instructional Techniques
The classroom delivery method may include lecture, discussion, question-and-answer sessions, small-group problem solving, and case study reviews based on real life situations. Classroom instruction will be supplemented, where appropriate, by PowerPoint presentations, use of internet technology, guest speakers and field trips.
Reading Assignments
Textbook reading and library research assignments.
Writing Assignments
Students will complete essays or research reports that require them to analyze, interpret, evaluate, and synthesize primary and/or secondary sociological data and draw appropriate conclusions and to present their conclusions in a well-organized and clearly written format.
Out-of-class Assignments
Reading and writing assignments; research assignments; preparation of content to share with the class and/or responses to content presented; analysis of case studies and/or review of expert interviews; responses to guiding questions on course content; and/or self-assessments
Demonstration of Critical Thinking
Research assignments; preparation of content to share with the class and responses to content presented; analysis of case studies and review of expert interviews; responses to guiding questions on course content; and/or self-assessments.
Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration
Analysis of case studies; reviews of expert interviews; responses to guided questions; presentations and/or responses to content presented by others.
Eligible Disciplines
Gerontology: Masters degree in gerontology OR the equivalent OR see interdisciplinary studies. Masters degree required. Sociology: Masters degree in sociology OR bachelors degree in sociology AND masters degree in anthropology, any ethnic studies, social work, or psychology OR the equivalent. Masters degree required.
Textbooks Resources
1. Required Whitbourne, S. K.; Whibourne, S. B. Adult Development and Aging: Biopsychosocial Perspectives, 6th ed. Wiley, 2017 Rationale: - Legacy Textbook Transfer Data: Legacy text 2. Required Quadagno, Jill. Aging and The Life Course, 6th ed. McGraw Hill, 2014 Rationale: - Legacy Textbook Transfer Data: Legacy text
Other Resources
1. Coastline Library