Shiang-Fu Lu

4.30 Application of Museum Learning Resources in Community-based Art Programs for Older Adults: An Action Research (Paper)

Shiang-Fu Lu – Department of Adult and Continuing Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taiwan

Abstract:

Advancements in public health and medical technology have significantly extended global life expectancy. However, population aging has become a critical issue worldwide. Taiwan is one of the fastest aging societies in the world. Therefore, in order to promote lifelong learning and cultural equality, the National Museum of History in Taiwan has transformed images of cultural relics in the collection into a learning resource specially designed for the elderly entitled A Story Box of Creative Aging: Impression of Home, which has received international recognition, including the MUSE Design Award (USA) and the iJungle Graphic Design Award (Europe).

This study adopts an action research method and uses the museum’s learning resource A Story Box of Creative Aging to design six community-based art courses for the elderly to study the teaching effectiveness and inspiration of the courses and promote creative aging. The program was conducted with 12 older adults in a community centre in Taipei. Data were collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to assess participants’ satisfaction and their true feelings about the program design. The research found that: 1. The course design model of this study is suitable for developing art engagement courses for the elderly; 2. The participants were highly satisfied with the course, including three key factors: inclusive teaching methods, self-expression and creative experience, and A Story Box of Creative Aging the theme of which related to Impression of Home; 3. The course positively impacts the lives of the elderly, enriching life experiences, developing a positive attitude towards things, promoting self-improvement, and enhancing social interaction. The final research results show that art courses can be an effective way to promote health and creative aging among the elderly in the community.