Perceptions of peer-led learning among older adults in a community-based aquatic exercise program

Publication Date

January 2019

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Educational Gerontology

Volume

45

Issue

4

DOI

10.1080/03601277.2019.1621435

First Page

297

Last Page

208

Abstract

While aquatic exercises have been considered one of the most appropriate learning activities for older adult learners because they are safe and beneficial for health, limited evidence exists regarding how older adult learners perceive their learning environment and different learning strategies. Thus, our research explored older adults’ perceptions of peer-led aquatics classes. We interviewed 19 individuals who participated in aquatics exercise courses in a community recreation center in order to answer the following research questions: (a) How do older adults perceive a peer-led aquatics class? (b) How do older adult learners describe their interaction with their instructor and other learners in their learning environment? Using constant comparative analysis, we identified the participants’ perceptions of peer-led learning with regard to their perceived relationships in class, optimistic views on the peer-led learning concept, mixed and neutral attitudes, and professionalism of teaching. From our findings, we discussed empathic relationships, mixed perspectives derived from learners’ physical condition and personal value, and a lack of peer instructor training programs, especially in a senior fitness field. Findings have implications for senior fitness instructors and educators of older adults. © 2019 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Keywords

aged, aquatic exercise, article, clinical article, controlled study, exercise, female, human, human experiment, learning environment, male, perception, personal value, professionalism, recreation, teaching

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