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OER in lifelong learning for older adults

Abstract:

This chapter introduces the concept of active aging as a strategy to extend people's self-sufficiency and well-being as they age. In line with this aim, lifelong learning has been proposed as a means of encouraging older adults to engage in learning, including pre-retirement education, planning for the use of leisure time, recreational pursuits and more. These learning programs serve to keep older adults mentally active, and encourage their continued involvement in society. Nevertheless, several specific adjustments need to be considered in order to achieve better learning outcomes in older people. These include accessibility issues related to their milder disabilities, slower pacing for learning, and adapted instructional methods to maintain their interest and engagement. The chapter discusses the use of Open Educational Resources (OER) for lifelong learning. As part of this theme, some cases of the use of OER in lifelong learning programs are presented. The chapter concludes by highlighting the contribution of lifelong learning to active aging as well as the feasibility of using OER in lifelong learning for older people. The biggest obstacle to the adoption of OER is finding resources that meet the necessary requirements, both in subject matter and in terms of particular needs. Based on the findings of the research conducted, the authors argue that awareness about accessibility on OER (though not when using Massive Open Online Courses) is still incipient, and that provision of OER suitable for older people, i.e., resources that meet accessibility criteria, continues to be a priority.