Assessment of Lifelong Learning Needs in The Later Life of Older Adults Enrolled in Continuing Education Programmes: A Comparative Study of Southern and Northern Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64348/zije.2026601Abstract
The number of the ageing population is increasing daily and has significantly impacted socio-economic status in both developed and developing countries. This calls for greater attention from the government and experts. Therefore, this study provides an X-ray of lifelong learning needs in the later years of older adults. The following research questions were answered: (i) What is the regional policy of lifelong learning in the later years of older adults in Nigeria? (ii) What factors motivate older adults’ participation in continuing education programmes for learning in the later years? (iii) What are the challenges and prospects of lifelong learning needs in the later years of older adults? The study adopted a cross-sectional survey. The population of the study consisted of male and female older learners who are within the age range of 30-50 years. A total of thirty older learners were selected for the interview (qualitative data), and three (3) experts were selected for the interview in every programmes area namely: 1 course facilitator, 1 programme organiser, and 1 administrator, respectively. The purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used in selecting the older learners, while, the purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used in selecting three (3) experts. The study strictly adhered to ethical considerations guiding research conduct. The study found that factors motivating older adults’ participation include: personal growth, career attainment, and health and well-being. This study recommends that the policy makers on education should design curriculum content on educational gerontology that will meet the learning needs of older adults in Nigeria.
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