Developing an Agency Enhancement Program: A Study Based on Midlife Transition Experiences

This study aims to develop an educational program to strengthen agency among middle-aged adults based on their life transition experiences, responding to the growing recognition of midlife as a period of transformation and second growth rather than decline. Using a qualitative research approach, six adults aged 45–50 with midlife transition experiences were purposively sampled and subjected to semi-structured in-depth interviews (90–180 minutes) conducted between August and October 2024. Data were analyzed through grounded theory procedures of open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. The analysis reveals three dimensions: the structure and meaning of life transition experiences, educational needs during transition, and agency-enhancing factors at personal, relational, and social levels. Based on these findings, a four-module educational program is proposed comprising the stages of 'Looking Back,' 'Preparing,' 'Designing,' and 'Moving Forward,' designed to organically integrate and create synergy. This study contributes to the field of adult education by providing a conceptual framework for agency-oriented lifelong learning programs for midlife adults.