Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2023 - GERO 806 G100

Interdisciplinary Theories in Gerontology (4)

Class Number: 6594

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 11, 2023: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

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 (that includes readings and class discussions) is
used 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 varies areas within Gerontology, such
as:
• Psychology – Successful aging, resilience, optimization, etc.
• Sociology – Activity/disengagement, social construction, life course, etc.
• Design and Environment – person environment fit, ecological model, etc.
• Intersectionality and ethnicity
• Mobility and disability

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

At the end of the course you will be able to:
1. Critically evaluate and formulate between styles of theorizing in varied disciplines as it is applied to research on older adults
2. Identify and analyze theoretical concepts within substantive areas of research on aging (not in your own core area) highlighting overlaps and gaps
3. Develop your own conceptual model for your research:
a) Select, adapt and/or combine theoretical models to develop a conceptual model relevant to your area of research
b) Articulate the evolution of your own conceptual model linking it to substantive areas of your research
4. Approach and understand problems from varied theoretical perspectives that allows you to be part of interdisciplinary teams

Grading

  • Class Discussion and Critical Contribution 25%
  • Assign 1: Theoretical Critique, Synthesis and Application 25%
  • Assign 2: Seminar on Conceptual Paper 20%
  • Assign 3: Conceptual Paper linked to Own Research 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings: Most of the readings for this course will be accessible through the Leganto Course Reserve Program on CANVAS. Complete reading reference list is shared in the course syllabus.

The following books are also recommended for this course:
• Bengtson V. & Settersten, R. (Eds.) (2016) Handbook of Theories of Aging (3rd Edition). New York: Springer.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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 website 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