Comparative studies of varied contemporary cultures. Endeavors to delineate the effects of aging as separated from the cultural observations and expectations of elders in a particular society. The interaction of various levels of government, community power structures and community action efforts and demographic characteristics are examined. Selected theoretical perspectives are considered in relation to their linkage to classic sociologists and their implications for research in sociology and social work practice. These topics are discussed in relation to relevant literature in sociology.
Students learn to apply principles from the classroom in agencies that serve aging clients.
The purpose of this is to provide field experience exposure to the needs and the problems of older persons. Students will learn firsthand how these problems are addressed in the various agencies. A study of the physical, societal, anthropological, and psychological aspects of aging and of the institutional alternatives for the care of the elderly in our society. Social work majors focus on their application to social work practice, especially the single-subject design. Sociology students develop a research design for an appropriate topic.