Seniors' Learning in the Digital Age - (101 Collection) by Dianne Conrad (Paperback)

About the Book

As demographics shift and the number of healthy, active seniors increases, so too do their options, education being one. However, some are being inhibited in their active learning, raising the need to question the quality and quantity of learning opportunities available to them.

Book Synopsis

How are older learners faring in today's digital society? Are they being excluded or left behind? The author explores this question and investigates strategies needed to assist older learners who want to continue learning into their golden years. Canada's demographics are shifting, with more seniors living longer and leading more productive lives, notably through their participation in education.
Incorporating adult education theory and practice with gerontological statistics and literature, the author considers the situations of older learners, who are faced with both barriers and opportunities. Technology should not be an obstacle to older learners; when potential opportunities arise--and with assistance from family and friends--education can help set older learners on a fulfilling path that enhances their lives.

Review Quotes

Conrad provides an insider's view of the learning landscape of older learners and helps us understand the full lifelong learning continuum, which includes older adults' motivation to engage in learning, whether in community groups, online, or at home. Conrad challenges us to think of possibilities such as more Internet support and recognition of capacity. The literature on older learning is scant and this book fills a huge gap.--Dr. Leona English, St. Francis-Xavier University

About the Author

As an experienced educator and an older learner herself, Dr. Dianne Conrad has gained insight into the learning contexts of older adults from this dual perspective. Caring for an aging mother, and travelling with other seniors, heightened her interest in the learning opportunities available to older adults and the challenges they face. The research for this book complements her work in the fields of open and distance learning, prior learning recognition, and assessment.