Global Learning in the Third Age: Findings from a German project

Global learning and development education might be accurately accused of focusing on the young, to the neglect of older people. In this article, the authors outline an evaluation-research study which accompanied a training programme that was designed to address this apparent neglect. The project, a collaboration between a number of faith-based organisations coming from global learning or adult education perspectives, developed a methodology for training educators working with older people in a 'third age' learning setting. The paper outlines the genesis and development of the project, and also describes the accompanying evaluation-research. Beginning with an outline of the life and learning contexts involved in educational work with older people, the authors elaborate a perspective on global learning with older people. The authors go on to outline the training and practical implementation of the projects involved, and to describe the methodology and outline findings of the evaluation study. Conclusions are drawn regarding elements for the successful implementation of training in global education with those working with older people, while future prospects for strengthening this neglected sector are also suggested.