대학생 여성노인의 만학 경험에 관한 연구

A Study on the Late Learning Experience of an Elderly Woman as a College Student

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of an elderly woman as a college student in learning late in life. Methods: For this study, a data was collected through an in-depth interview with a 75-year-old elderly woman who finished middle and high school and was a junior student at a university in Jeonbuk and then analyzed using case study research methods. Results: The results were as follows. First, the meaning of being a college student for the elderly participant was mainly related to herself, such as overall happiness, unexpected realization of a dream, an increase in self-confidence & pride, fun of learning, and being recognized as a social being because of her status as a college student. Second, the participant experienced personal changes after entering college such as physical & psychological vitality, a rise in mental health, and intellectual improvement, and family changes such as spousal support & stronger marital love, the support of children, and recognition from children & relatives. And the participant experienced changes in social relationship such as being recognized for her dual identity as both a college student and grandmother, disconnection from friends or neighbors, and inter-generational integration with young college students and professors. Third, the participant, as an elderly student, had difficulties in college classes such as a lack of computer skill and essay-oriented exam, and a deterioration of health and the burden caused by study and house-keeping. Lastly, the elderly female student, who was a participant in this study, overcome the difficulties with the idea of pushing ahead, an attitude of asking, a habit of reviewing, a proud heart, and confidence in real life experience. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it could be said that the experience of elderly woman as an elderly college student had far more positive aspects overall.