Getting to Know Yourself Across the Lifespan
Abstract New teaching and learning methods must be developed to accommodate exclusive online environments. The utilization of experiential learning in an aging course is a key teaching method that helps tap into the affective domain of learning (i.e., feelings, values, and attitudes). In a society where ageist attitudes abound and are often internalized, purposeful challenges to the "othering" of older adults is needed to disrupt this cycle. This presentation will share an experiential/age inclusivity activity that can be utilized in any teaching environment. Over a semester, students are required to write themselves four separate letters from their older selves at varying ages to their younger selves. They must research and provide a snapshot of what their life will be like at these ages in predetermined areas (i.e., health, mobility, family/friends, policy, and cultural variables, etc.) Worksheets will be provided capturing this "Getting to Know Yourself Across the Lifespan" experiential learning activity.