Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - GERO 300 E100

Introduction to Gerontology (3)

Class Number: 5189

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Mon, 5:00–7:50 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 15, 2021
    Wed, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    60 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examination of the aging process from a multi-disciplinary perspective. Physical and health factors in aging, economic and vocational factors in aging, family and community relations of older people, social policy and politics of aging. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on normal aging. Students who have taken GERO 101 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of this course students will be able to:

  • Understand the scope and impact of population aging at the local and global level.
  • Differentiate key terms and concepts related to aging.
  • Identify and critique stereotypes/beliefs about aging and articulate the impact of ageism.
  • Recognize sources of diversity in the aging experience and describe the impact of environment, gender, race/ethnicity, culture, and socioeconomic status on older adults.
  • Explain age-related progression/change in physical, psychological, and social domains. Identify key concepts/theories in these areas and link to real world scenarios.
  • Describe how social engagement, support, and care for older adults and their family/friends is bi-directional. Recognize that older adults are assets rather than liabilities to society.
  • Explain societal/institutional rules, regulations, and policies on aging in the areas of healthcare, work/retirement, and end-of-life. Identify gaps in services/programs.
  •  

Grading

  • Assignment # 1 15%
  • Assignment # 2 Term Paper 25%
  • Persona Project + Participation 15%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Final Exam 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Quadagno, J. (2021). Aging and the life course: Introduction to social gerontology (8th ed.). McGraw Hill.

You can find purchase options for the textbook here: https://www.mheducation.com/highered/product/1260804275.html#textbookCollapse

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 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware 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.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.