Old age is a part of living: student reflections on intergenerational service-learning.
Analysis of student journals examined the effect intergenerational service-learning had upon undergraduate students' attitudes and perceptions of older adults. Students (N = 102) engaged in 12 hours of service-learning with older adults that included writing structured reflection journals. Coding involved open, axial, and selective coding with common themes identified from the journals. Results revealed a positive attitude shift toward older adults over the course of the semester, greater comfort with the idea of aging, and a propensity to describe the experience as being personally and professionally influential in their own lives. Students also reported increased course understanding and a desire to continue volunteering. Implications for intergenerational service-learning are discussed.
Department of Child Development and Family Relations, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27858, USA.
Hilary R
HR
Kalisch
Deanna R
DR
Coughlin
Sharon M
SM
Ballard
Angela
A
Lamson
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003479:Curriculum; D005260:Female; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D008297:Male; D017145:Models, Educational; D013336:Students, Health Occupations / Q000523:psychology*