Unlearning Ageism Project - Now Seeking Volunteers!

The Gerontology and Early Childhood Education programs have joined together to create the “Unlearning Ageism” Project. This project is supported Missouri State University’s Experiential Learning Grant.

Growing up you read books or watch movies about fantasy and adventure, full of wonder and excitement! You hold onto the good memories and share the stories with your children or grandchildren. Often beside the mystical adventures are harmful stereotypes of aging. In many instances, books have limited aging adult roles negatively. Old people are often depicted as sad, sick, or mean. Think of the wicked old witch, or the mean old man shouting to get off of his yard! These characters are often exaggerated for storytelling purposes, but how do these tropes impact developing minds and overall perceptions on what it means to get older?

Introducing “Unlearning Ageism”

Missouri State University students studying to become teachers and aging professionals are working together to create new early childhood curriculum materials that challenge stereotypes and present aging in a positive, realistic light. In this project, students will work with MSU 62 participants/volunteers to provide feedabck on curriculum materials or have open discussions with students on their lived experiences.

Volunteers’ participation will help students recognize and challenge misconceptions about aging, reshape how they talk to children about aging, with the aim to create a society where people of all ages are valued and respected. Your efforts help to make their work authentic and meaningful!

Volunteer Roles: Curriculum Creator or Storyteller

Curriculum Creators will collaborate with Mo State students to create and provide feedback on curriculum materials
- Scheduled meetings on Missouri State campus for 5 Thursdays (February-April) at 11:00am-12:15pm
Storytellers will participate in video recorded storytelling and discussion with Mo State students
- Meetings scheduled individually with student partners; some meetings may be virtual

No specific experience is required in order to participate. The first fifteen (15) participants will receive a $200 stipend. All participants will be invited and honored at final showcase.

To participate or learn more

If you have any questions or would like to reserve your spot on the project, please contact Dr. Maureen Templeman: MaureenTempleman@MissouriState.edu.

Discover more from Adult Student Services Blog

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.