The Social Outcomes of Older Adult Learning in Taiwan: Evaluation Framework and Indicators

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the social outcomes of older adult learning in Taiwan. In light of our society's aging population structure, the task of establishing evaluation framework and indicators for the social outcomes of learning (SOL) as applied to older adults is urgent. In order to construct evaluation indicators for older adult SOL based on the framework provided by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD; 2007), the focus group method and Delphi Technique were adopted. Five findings stand out: First, the evaluation framework of older adult SOL includes two domains, seven dimensions, 21 subdimensions, and 58 evaluation indicators. Second, the evaluation indicators were ranged between important and very important. Third, there are 26 evaluation indicators identified as primary indicators. Fourth, the evaluation framework of older adult SOL extends from individual to the external worlds. Fifth, the community and social dimensions of older adult SOL need to be reinforced.