Improving Learning in Later Life

This book explores the learning experiences of older adults, highlighting the significance of education in their lives and offering valuable insights for researchers and educators.

This insightful book, Improving Learning in Later Life, delves into the diverse learning experiences of older adults throughout their lives. With an increasing life expectancy, there is a significant push for older individuals to continue their education and engage in lifelong learning. This approach not only promotes health and independence but also encourages active participation in society. However, policymakers often overlook the perspectives and needs of these older learners, making it essential to shift the conversation toward their experiences and challenges.

Improving Learning in Later Life presents comprehensive research that highlights the importance of understanding how older people engage with learning. The book offers a critical examination of the theoretical and philosophical frameworks surrounding later life learning, drawing on extensive research from various countries including the USA, UK, and Australia. It documents individual experiences through various methods, such as focus group discussions, learning diaries, and interviews, providing a rich tapestry of insights into the learning journeys of older adults.

The findings from this book underscore the variety of both formal and informal learning activities that older individuals pursue during retirement. In a time when the provision and funding of non-vocational learning opportunities are under scrutiny, the insights presented in Improving Learning in Later Life will be invaluable for researchers, educators, and practitioners involved in creating and implementing learning programs for older adults.