ELDERS AND HIGHER EDUCATION: INSTRUMENTAL OR EXPRESSIVE GOALS?

Abstract

This study examines the learning goals of older adult students. Instrumental and expressive learning goals are known to be associated with students’ reasons for enrolling in college‐level programs. The findings of the research reported in this study suggest that the concepts employed in distinguishing between instrumental and expressive goals are relevant to older learners. The elders in the study were more likely than the middle‐aged students to consider “learning for its own sake” (i.e., expressive goals) to be their most important reason for enrollment. More study is advised to determine whether this tendency toward expressive goals is related to program type or low expectations regarding roles available to older adults.

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