The purpose of this module is to equip you with a range of current and conceptual gerontological perspectives necessary to understand and challenge the value and belief systems which underpin an ageing population
The theoretical components of the module will encourage exploration of the emergence of an ageing population - demographically, sociologically, psychologically and medically.

Provide a critical appraisal of one of the theories explored within the module ensuring exploration of the research evidence base.

The following represent university grading criteria for M level work

PASS WITH DISTINCTION
An outstanding piece of work which meets all the requirements of a merit grade and in addition:
Demonstrates creativity and innovation. There is substantial evidence of critique, challenge and original thought. The arguments presented are compelling and authoritative and demonstrate synthesis to support new ideas.


PASS WITH MERIT
A piece of work which meets all the requirements for a pass grade and in addition:
Presents arguments which have been underpinned by a thorough exploration of data and conceptual-based evidence which may go beyond the boundaries of the discipline. Discussion communicates ideas and arguments logically, concisely, clearly and effectively


PASS
Proficient, fluently, presented arguments that demonstrate understanding of theoretical issues in the application of knowledge.
Work includes critical analysis that demonstrates breath and depth of literature and knowledge in the subject area, and originality in presentation.
The use of evidence demonstrates an understanding of the problem of the boundaries of knowledge and is used as a basis for problem solving.
Referencing is complete and accurate

BAUMAN, Z. (1997) Postmodernity and its discontents. Polity Press.

BINSTOCK, R. H. and GEORGE, L. K. (2001) Handbook of Aging and the Social Sciences. London: Academic Press.

BLAIKIE, A. (1999) Ageing and Popular Culture. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

BYTHEWAY, B. (1995) Ageism. Milton Keynes, Open University Press.

EDMUNDS, J. (2002 Generations, culture and society. Buckingham, Open University Press.

GILLEARD, C. and HIGGS, P. (2000) Cultures of Ageing: Self, citizen and the body. Harlow: Prentice Hall.

HEPWORTH, M. (2000) Stories of Ageing. Buckingham: Open University Press.

KIRKWOOD, T. (1999) Time of our lives. London: Weidenfield and Nicholson.

MINKLER, M. and ESTES, C. (eds) (1999) Critical Gerontology: Perspectives from Political and Moral Economy. New York, Baywood, Amityville: 17-35.

MOODY, H. (1998) Aging, Concepts and Controversies. London, Pine Forge Press.

PHILLIPSON, C. (1998) Reconstructing old age: New agendas in social theory and practice. London, Sage.

Library
Tutorial support
Study skills / IT support advisors
Access to a computer and the internet
Utilising e mail facilities

The learning strategies will be diverse in order to provide the opportunity to internalise the knowledge base. Lead lectures will introduce key theories and the empirical knowledge base. Each student will prepare one presentation based on a contemporary aspect of an ageing population for group discussion e.g. `The Grey Vote', `Post Menopausal Pregnancy'.

Elements of this module will be delivered via Blackboard.


Contact hours (36 hours)
70% Key Lectures
30% Student led seminar / critical debate

Independent Study Hours 114 =
100% reading and assignment preparation