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CCOG for GRN 201 Spring 2024

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Course Number:
GRN 201
Course Title:
Understanding and Ending Ageism
Credit Hours:
2
Lecture Hours:
0
Lecture/Lab Hours:
40
Lab Hours:
0

Course Description

Explores ageism as a form of prejudice and discrimination that intersects with other systems of oppression. Investigates the different levels at which ageism operates and the negative impact that internalized and institutionalized ageism has on individuals and society. Introduces perspectives and practices for addressing and ending ageism and creating age-inclusive and age-equitable policies, programs and communities. Prerequisites: WR 115, RD 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement test scores. Audit available.

Addendum to Course Description

Required for Gerontology AAS Degree and Gerontology Professional Career Pathway Certificate. Audit available.

Intended Outcomes for the course

Upon completion of the course students will be able to:

  1. Critique and analyze ageist assumptions, stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination at both personal and public levels.
  2. Identify the negative effects of internalized and institutionalized ageism.
  3. Identify the characteristics of age-inclusive and age-equitable policies, programs and communities.
  4. Advocate for intergenerational solidarity and the end of ageism.

Aspirational Goals

  • Use critical thinking to evaluate information and its sources (popular media and research publications).
  • Develop a commitment to age-friendly, dementia-friendly, and anti-oppressive practices as a gerontology professional.
  • Recognize the potential of people of all ages and life course stages.
  • Appreciate the intersectional nature of identity and lived experience.

Course Activities and Design

This course will be conducted in an online format and utilize a collaborative inquiry design whereby students will conceptualize and conduct applied projects together under the guidance of the instructor.   

Outcome Assessment Strategies

Student progress in meeting the intended course outcomes is measured by various learning projects:

  • Personal reflection and assessment activities around internalized ageism
  • Collaborative aging-awareness and ageism-awareness exercises
  • Review of literature on the negative effects of internalized and institutionalized ageism
  • Applied capstone project focused on anti-ageism advocacy

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)

Content includes:

  • Comprehensive overview of the characteristics, mechanisms and effects of ageism
  • Examination of how ageism intersects with other “isms” in forming a system of oppression and yet is often not considered in discussions about inclusion and equity
  • Identification and planning of interventions and projects connected to increasing aging awareness and ending ageism
  • Themes of aging-awareness, social justice and intergenerational solidarity woven throughout the course
  • Emphasis on reflection, critical thinking, and praxis