LIFELONG LEARNINGThe joy of learning is nature’s motivator for growth. It makes an infant reach for a rattle and puts man on the moon. It is not limited to the classroom or early years but continues throughout life, building on experience and accumulated knowledge. There are many reasons to continue learning. Education keeps the mind vital and active. It brings us into contact with interesting people and ideas, and opens up opportunities for challenge and accomplishment. It broadens our outlook and affords a continued sense of purpose. It can provide us with new job skills, open new areas of interest and expand old ones. Many educators believe older learners make better students. Since we can freely choose our course of study, we tend to be more keenly interested in learning and more disciplined than younger students. We bring with us a wealth of experience to draw from and are less likely to be distracted. Our presence in the classroom actually enhances the learning process for younger students. We are seen as positive role models and our real-life experiences add dimension and perspective to discussions. Whether you want to go to college for an advanced degree or take a short course on quilting, there is a wealth of programs to choose from. Libraries offer lectures, classes and discussion groups as do museums, religious organizations, YMCA’s and community centers. Your local high school or college may offer an array of non-credit classes for the adult student, ranging from technical skills to high school equivalency, sports and hobbies.You need not even leave home to take advantage of the many online learning experiences available.
Are you ready to go back to school? Many colleges and universities offer special programs for older adults. In some cases, arrangements can be made to audit classes on a space-available basis, free of charge. Lifelong Learning Institutes, geared specifically to older learners are opening up on university and college campuses across the country. These programs recognize our wish to continue learning free from tests and curriculum requirements. They offer a range of educational experiences including discussions and workshops on such topics as the news of the week,or planning a dynamic retirement, as well as tours and trips, courses and lectures on anything from art to zoology. All offered to members at reduced rates.
|
