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A North Star for Gerontology: Using the Threshold Concept Framework to Transform Ageism Education
Leah M Janssen1, Valerie Flores1, Jiawei Cao1
1Department of Sociology and Gerontology, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA.
The Gerontologist
|September 27, 2021
Summary
The threshold concept framework offers a new way to teach gerontology, particularly ageism. Applying this educational approach can combat negative consequences of ageism in clinical and research settings.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Threshold concepts are fundamental to learning and understanding complex subjects.
- The threshold concept framework is widely used across disciplines to improve learning and curriculum design.
- Ageism poses significant challenges in gerontology, impacting health, employment, and healthcare access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the utility of the threshold concept framework in gerontology.
- To conceptualize ageism as a threshold concept within gerontology.
- To propose an innovative educational approach for complex gerontological topics.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of ageism through the lens of the threshold concept framework.
- Application of the framework to educational strategies in gerontology.
- Exploration of threshold concepts in clinical, research, and educational contexts.
Main Results:
- Ageism can be effectively understood and taught as a threshold concept.
- The framework aids in identifying and addressing learning barriers related to ageism.
- This approach enhances understanding of complex gerontological issues.
Conclusions:
- The threshold concept framework provides a valuable tool for gerontological education.
- Conceptualizing ageism as a threshold concept offers a novel strategy to combat its negative impacts.
- This framework can transform how gerontology is taught and learned in various settings.
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