Bibliographic Details
| Title: |
"Ageism can affect anyone": teaching ageism as a threshold concept. |
| Authors: |
Cao, Jiawei1 (AUTHOR), Janssen, Leah M.2 (AUTHOR) JansseLM@MiamiOH.edu, Flores, Valerie3 (AUTHOR) |
| Source: |
Gerontology & Geriatrics Education. Apr-Jun2026, Vol. 47 Issue 2, p287-306. 20p. |
| Subject Terms: |
*Threshold concepts (Learning), *Qualitative research, *Teaching methods, *Gerontology, *Age discrimination, *Student attitudes, *Curriculum planning, Ageism |
| Abstract: |
Threshold concepts are key ideas that once understood, lead to fundamental shifts in knowledge that transform how people learn and understand the world. This study examines the effects of using a threshold concept approach to teach ageism and compares undergraduate students' perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors across different classes. Four entry-level gerontology courses participated; two used the threshold concept framework, while the other two employed a traditional one-time module. In-class survey data were collected from all four courses; word clouds and qualitative reflections were collected from intervention courses before and after the intervention. SPSS was used for descriptive analysis, and content analysis for qualitative data. Results indicated a shift in the intervention groups' understanding of ageism. Initially, students associated aging with negative stereotypes and physical decline, but they later developed a more nuanced view of aging, recognizing ageism's broader societal implications after the intervention. Word clouds revealed a shift from negative to more diverse descriptors of aging. The findings suggest that integrating threshold concepts into curriculum fosters irreversible changes in attitudes and perspectives toward aging, encouraging a more positive and inclusive view. Future research should explore the long-term effects of this approach and its application across other gerontological contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: |
Education Research Complete |
