Seminar in Aging:
Exploring Aging Programs, Policy, and the Long-Term Care Continuum
Spring 2014
Northeastern Illinois University
Final Paper Directions
Each student is required to write a research paper focusing on one area of gerontology that is of specific interest. Select an area related to older adults/aging that is meaningful to you or something that you have an interest in and would like to learn more about (this is part of your first paper assignment, due 2/7). Your final paper should provide an overview/brief history of your topic, why this topic is relevant in the aging field, who is affected by it and how, provide key definitions, discuss relevant theories (if applicable), discuss what is happening in the field/current research, elaborate upon challenges in the field, and provide future directions for research/practice. Your paper may also include additional sections. You will structure your paper in a way that is most suitable to your specific paper topic, and the second paper assignment (due 3/7) will help with this. I will be responsible for approving your final paper topic, and will also provide you with individualized feedback on your two final paper assignments, which will guide you on the development of your final paper.
The final paper is worth 100 points and will comprise 20% of your total final grade. A list of sample paper topics can be found below. Research papers should be 5-7 pages in length (double spaced, size 12 Times New Roman font) and reference a minimum of 6-8 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Papers should be thoroughly spell/grammatically checked before being handed in.
Final papers are due on 4/25 at the beginning of class. Late papers will not be accepted.
Final Paper Sample Topics*
Successful Aging
Retirement
Transportation/Driving
Dementia/Alzheimer’s
Health Disparities
Employment
Intergenerational Support/Relationships
Volunteerism
Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender (LGBT) Aging