The classes will involve discussions of readings in which students will be expected to take active roles. The particular discussion of readings will be announced in class each week as on a course reading list. This seminar is organized around weekly topics focused on group discussion of assigned reading. Readings concern self organization, origins in early development, developmental disturbances. Brief weekly reactions to the reading topics are required and will be used in class to begin discussions.
Attendance is required.
Course evaluation will be based on two short papers, two essay tests, and, to a limited extent on class preparation and participation. Although late life is often viewed as a time of inevitable loss of competence, there is also evidence of great late life potential. This seminar will explore such potential. We will become familiar with relevant theory and research, read biographical material on late life greatness, study examples of late life accomplishments, and talk with vital old people. By the end of the seminar students should understand the nature of late life potential, as well as some of the conditions that facilitate it.