Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2020 - GERO 806 G100

Interdisciplinary Theories in Gerontology (4)

Class Number: 6730

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Reviews major theories used in gerontology from diverse fields covering the individual and society, including environment and aging; health and aging; social and family relationships; social change; and behavioural change. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the fundamental assumptions of human aging experience underlying the theories; critical assessment of theoretical propositions; research evidence; and potential for synthesis.

COURSE DETAILS:

This seminar format course presents an in-depth examination of the interdisciplinary nature of theories in Gerontology. A problem-based learning approach is used (that includes readings and class discussions)to understand the general nature and importance of theory in Gerontology. Theory development in Gerontology is examined through the lens of varied interdisciplinary theoretical perspectives. This course covers the definition of theory, importance of theory, the difference between theoretical paradigms, conceptual models, micro-, bridging- and macro level theories relevant to Gerontology.

The course is particularly useful for helping you to develop theoretical ideas for your capstone project or thesis. It helps you to gain a critical understanding of theories in various key areas within Gerontology, such as:
· Psychology and Human Development– Successful aging, SOC Model, etc.
· Sociology – Life-course Framework. Theories relevant to family studies, caregiving, work, social participation/isolation, etc.
· Environmental Gerontology – PE Fit model, Socio-ecological Model, Residential Normalcy, etc.
· Critical Gerontology – Intersectionality & Life-course
· Activity, Mobility and Disability – ICF, Disablement Process, etc.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

1. You will gain an understanding about the theoretical concepts and models utilized by a wide range of researchers in Gerontology.
2. You will explore the nature of theory and critically evaluate theory construction
3. You will learn to make connections between styles of theorizing in varied disciplines as it applies to research on older adults.
4. You will be able to select and use one or more theoretical models relevant to your research
5. You will be able to adapt existing theoretical models and/or develop your own theoretical models for your research.
6. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to approach problems from an interdisciplinary perspective, “speak the language” of gerontology across disciplines and potentially work as part of interdisciplinary research teams.

Grading

  • Attendance and Critical Contribution 15%
  • Student Seminars 20%
  • Research Paper 35%
  • Take Home Exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

A majority of the readings for this course will be accessible through the Leganto Course Reserve Program on CANVAS. Complete reading reference list will be shared in the course syllabus on the first day of classes.

RECOMMENDED READING:

• Biggs, S., Hendricks, J. and Lowenstein, A. (2003) The Need for Theory: Critical Approaches to Social Gerontology. Amityville, NY: Baywood Publishing Inc.
• Bengtson V. & Settersten, R. (Eds.) (2016) Handbook of Theories of Aging (3rd Edition). New York: Springer.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2020

Teaching at SFU in fall 2020 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).