COVID-19 and lifelong learning: older adult peer educators’ perspective on the pandemic’s effect on adult education

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a period of unprecedented uncertainty, profoundly affecting societies worldwide. Older adults often faced heightened risks of isolation and health complications. As research in the aftermath of the pandemic has sought to understand its multifaceted impacts, there remains a notable gap in examining older adults’ access to education, particularly within the Lifelong Learning Institutes (LLIs) or Universities of the Third Age (U3A). Methodology In the course of a broader study focusing on older adult peer educators, the topic of COVID-19 emerged as a prominent and recurring theme of 14 interviews with US-based peer educators. Using a qualitative content analysis approach supported by WebQDA (Qualitative Data Analysis Software) we identified key themes and subthemes in the interview data. Findings Major themes included the impact of COVID-19 in the classroom and institution and also in the personal lives of the students and educators. A prominent subtheme was the introduction, or shift, in technology. Technology was seen as a powerful tool for expanding educational opportunities for older adults and engaging a broader audience. The resilience and adaptability of educators in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic were also frequently discussed. Conclusion This study highlights the way in which the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped education within Lifelong Learning Institutes. The findings underscore the importance of addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by older adult peer educators and highlight the opportunities for enhancing specific person-based support and allocating resources effectively in the evolving post-pandemic educational landscape.