Instructor:
Edward Schneider, M.D.
E-mail: eschneid@usc.edu
 
Syllabus (PDF)
Spring 2007

An introduction to the concepts, attitudes, values, knowledge, skills, and ethical issues upon which professional practice in gerontology is based.

This course introduces USC students to the field of gerontology and focuses on all aspects of aging. Four major areas are being covered: the biology, psychology, sociology, and policy of aging. Career paths for gerontologists are explored, as well as the future of countries based on the aging of their population. This course provides knowledge of physical, mental, and social age-related changes; it will show the interactions of these types of aging; and describe the pathological developments that affect many older people. The course focuses on diversity in the older population that results from differing behaviors, traditions, and attitudes towards aging.

At the completion of the course, the student will be able to:

1. summarize the major events and themes in the development of the field of gerontology and make reasonable projections on future service, personnel and funding developments;
2. describe the various roles of professional gerontologists and the organizational contexts within which these roles are carried out;
3. identify current trends supporting the career development of professionals in the field of aging;
4. identify and discuss knowledge and skills that professional gerontologists have that others without a formal gerontological education do not have, and demonstrate how to communicate that to potential employers;
5. identify and discuss current ethical issues related to professional practice in aging;
6. identify and describe means by which professional fields achieve acceptance and status, and be able to suggest next steps for the profession of gerontology.