Research shows the elderly retain competence and have potential for development. However, review of low educational participation of Austrian older adults suggests constraints: influence of the social group, instructors' attitudes, and rigid separation of education, work, and retirement that limits postretirement participation. (SK)

Adult developmental theory can help learners see how motivation changes across the life cycle. Class-discussion groups focused on these theories raise awareness of what learners value or need at different stages as well as of the diverse life experiences of others. (SK)

In-depth interviews were used to investigate how life is experienced by persons at age 85 (N=129) and again at 92 (N=41). Seven patterns of adjustment ranging from self-realization to withdrawal emerged, and heterogeneity remained at follow-up with some changes in the characteristics of the categories and in coping strategies. (Author/EMK)

Argues that including study of family relationships in adult development and aging courses is desirable because family members are key sources of support throughout adulthood. Includes suggestions for course activities, and instructor and student resources related to family gerontology. (DSK)

Outlines two projects that highlight the multidimensionality of aging processes for adult development and aging courses: (1) students design an age-appropriate retirement community using buildings on the local college campus; and (2) students present products they design to remedy specific age-related problems. (DSK)

Reviews major developmental tasks of adults during early adulthood (which include intellectual, physical, emotional, moral, and interpersonal dimensions, with identity remaining the central theme) along with issues associated with transition into middle and later adulthood and provides suggestions for community college counselors working with…

Discusses research on midlife transitions in women and its implications for theories of women's adult development. Presents findings on menopause, the postparental period, and the roles of women at midlife. Offers several theoretical approaches in light of research findings and makes recommendations for future research. Suggests implications for…

A basic goal for individuals as they struggle to face normative developmental tasks across their life span is to determine how to make meaning of their experiences, real and vicarious. The authors describe a workshop that gave counselors and human service practitioners meaning-making strategies that they could use in their personal and…

How adults change over time is best understood through consideration of three kinds of time: historical time period, chronological age, and culturally specific social timetable of life events. Time provides a context for understanding developmental processes. (SK)

This article explores a particular expression of social activism by older Canadian women to consider its implications for later life learning. 'Older women', despite their heterogeneity, have tended to be pathologized as a part of the 'problem' of ageing and languishing welfare societies--i.e. stereotyped as passive recipients of welfare and…

A common outcome of entering post-compulsory education as a mature aged learner appears to be development and growth of the self. However, this is often only viewed as an outcome or considered an added benefit, rather than an integral part of the academic process itself. This paper explores the relationship between academic growth and personal…

Adult educators are recognizing that factors in the learning environment related to psychological, social, and cultural conditions exert a powerful influence on learners' growth and development. Current discussions on learning environments have broadened to include the need to confront issues of sexism and racism, interlocking systems of power and…

The research discussed in this article focuses on the relationship between siblings in adulthood and the relationship's effects on the siblings themselves. The report begins with a substantial review of the literature on siblings in adulthood, focusing on the meaning of the sibling relationship, methodological problems in studying adult siblings,…

This expanded edition of a 1982 book by Erik Erikson summarizes his work on the stages of the human life cycle, including chapters on psychosexuality and the cycle of generations, major stages in psychosocial development, and ego and ethos. An additional chapter on the ninth stage sets forth his philosophy on old age--i.e. the 80s and 90s--and how…

This book examines the important role of learning in maintaining the health, quality of life, and longevity of older adults. It includes results of the first comprehensive survey of adult learning in men and women over age 55. Chapter 1 focuses on aging, ageism, and issues raised by the graying of the population in what it calls the "Age" Age.…