Emeriti professors' perceptions: qualitative research exploring involvement in university activities.

Abstract

In 2020, the UMass Lowell (UML) Age-Friendly University (AFU) campus administered the Age-Friendly Inventory and Campus Climate Survey (ICCS) in partnership with UMass Boston. The results identified a need for campus improvement related to "involving retired faculty in university activities" (AFU Principle 9). In response to this finding, an IRB-approved follow-up survey was distributed to UML retired faculty and emeriti professors, the end of which invited respondents to participate in one-hour virtual qualitative interviews to explore the research question: What are the perceptions of retired faculty and emeriti professors regarding AFU Principle 9? Emeriti professor interviews (n = 19) were held in 2021. Four researchers completed the content analyses, which revealed six major themes: promoting intergenerational learning (IGL) activities; considering emeritus group; being proactive; supporting continued UML relationships; meaning of emeritus and preferred engagement; actual and perceived benefits. The findings offer guidance as to how AFU principles can serve as a guide to benefit both retired faculty and emeriti professors, students, and the UML community through understanding of this untapped resource.