Infusing Gerontology Throughout the BSW Curriculum

Summary

How can social work educators ensure that all of their BSW students have the savvy and ‘know-how’ to deal with the needs of our growing aging population? The development of broad-based, innovative gerontological learning opportunities in a BSW program in a small liberal arts and sciences college is presented in this article. Strategies for actively involving community representatives in curriculum changes and participatory learning experiences with students are shared. Ways to incorporate various disciplines in the BSW education are explored in addition to developing intergenerational projects, direct involvement of older persons in the educational process, and ways to unite field practice with theory.

Key Words:

• BSW program
• curriculum changes
• gerontology
• inter-generational
• experiential learning