National Adult Literacy Database

Authors: James E. Thornton, John B. Collins

In this study, commissioned by the Canadian Council on Learning (CCL), the authors explore the learning experiences of older adults. They point out that learning characterizes older adulthood as much as it defines the childhood years, but receives far less attention and systematic investigation.

The authors summarize initial findings from six guided autobiography workshop groups made up of older adults, mostly in their 60s and 70s. These workshops are designed to encourage participants to write and to tell their life stories.

The older adults who took part in this study were clear on the impact and value of their learning experiences. Their differing experiences reflected two kinds of learning: on one hand, learning that develops and expands into new interest areas and, on the other, learning that consolidates prior life events or current experiences.

The authors also include a review of literature on learning among middle-aged and older adults.

Funders:

• Canadian Council on Learning (CCL)

Added: 2012-01-03

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