We recently did a survey of our older students [50+] at the Institute of
Education, Univ. of London, and found they were very satisfied with our library
facilities, services, and staff helpfulness. In fact, they did not ask for
anything special for themselves as older learners, and felt quite confident of
themselves and their ability to cope with the various demands.
However, that was their self-reporing, and gratifying though it was, it is not
actually evidence of whether they are as competent as they believe they are.
I wonder if anyone knows of any studies related to older people using libraries?
I would like to have some data for the new course we have started as a short
master's level module** in which we investigate the significance of learning
within the many diverse social and individual contexts of older learning. It is
delivered by blended learning with the emphasis on peer collaboration.
As the first programme of its kind, we see it as an important step for profiling
important issues regarding the older population and offering professional
development in this growing field. Anyone seeking to wider their professional
range will be welcome.
If you are interested, please contact me.
Anita Pincas, [log in to unmask]
Senior Lecturer, Institute of Education, University of London
** Issues in Educating and Training Mature Adults (50+)
www.ioe.ac.uk/courses/ietma
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