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Building institutional and faculty capacity in higher education gerontology academic programs
Rosalie Gilford1, Janet C Frank
1Department of Sociology, California State University, Fullerton, CA, 92834-6846, USA. rgilford@fullerton.edu
Gerontology & Geriatrics Education
|July 29, 2006
Summary
California State University gerontology, geriatrics, and aging studies (GGA) programs need significant growth to meet workforce demands. Current CSU support and resources are insufficient for preparing professionals for the aging population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Aging Studies (GGA)
- Higher Education Policy
- Workforce Development
Background:
- California faces increasing demographic and legislative demands to prepare professionals for an aging population.
- The California State University (CSU) system offers academic programs in gerontology, geriatrics, and aging studies (GGA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the capacity of CSU GGA academic programs to meet the state's growing needs for professionals serving the aging population.
- To identify barriers and opportunities for expanding GGA education within the CSU system.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to directors of CSU gerontology, geriatrics, and aging studies (GGA) academic programs.
- Data collected focused on program capacity, curriculum, faculty resources, and administrative support.
Main Results:
- Program directors highlighted the necessity for GGA program expansion in courses, student enrollment, faculty numbers, and overall scope.
- The CSU system's current support for GGA program growth was deemed insufficient, with program numbers stagnant since 1997 and faculty time inadequate.
- Program strength and curriculum were rated as modest, while fiscal and administrative support from the CSU was low.
Conclusions:
- Significant investment and strategic development are required to enhance CSU's capacity to educate the future aging workforce.
- Faculty development initiatives are crucial for building a robust higher education infrastructure for GGA programs.
- Addressing the identified gaps in resources and support is essential for meeting California's legislative and demographic mandates in aging studies.
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