Back To School – at 74?
WINDSOR, CT, August 17, 2006 – Early fall sales always remind us that it’s time for ‘back to school’ shopping. It’s an odd time of year for people who don’t have children in school. They are familiar with the school year cycle and yet they aren’t involved in the back to school activities. For many people that’s just fine. However, some people, including many seniors and people with disabilities, long for a way to get back into the class room.
These life long learners read books and attend the occasional lecture at the local church or library. “What they really miss is the ongoing interaction with the teachers and other students,” says Andrea Tannenbaum, President of Dynamic-Living.com, an on-line store with hundreds of products that promote a convenient, comfortable and safe home environment. “Some also miss the challenge and excitement that comes with doing research and putting all the pieces together for a paper.“
Dynamic Living has been doing some research and wants you to know that it is never too late to enhance your education!
Seniors On Campus
Some college communities are experiencing significant growth in retirement housing because of the ability to audit courses for very low fees. This housing shift is great for the community as it raises the tax payer base as well as the local economy with a wave of residents who don’t leave over summer vacation.
Performers, lecturers and art exhibits often schedule tours in these towns because there is likely to be a strong audience. Sometimes discounted or free event tickets are offered to students. “Because most schools are accessible by Federal law, these activities offer a welcome change to people who thrive on diverse experiences,” notes Ms. Tannenbaum. “Exposure to new art forms or a good political debate can be just what the doctor ordered to keep the mind stimulated.”
More than 60 educational institutions, including LaSalle College in Newton, MA, the University of Florida and Michigan University are providing on campus privileges and housing for seniors. These educational outreach programs are developed with the understanding that the seniors will be involved in the college community. By occasionally taking on the role of learning partner for the undergraduates, seniors can provide support when the students need it. Age and experience can provide problem solving approaches that undergraduates may not have considered.
Auditing Online or by Telephone
Many potential students, both young and old, don’t live near a campus and are unable to commute. For these students, most colleges offer online as well as conference call classes. These courses, originally developed for the full time working student, have found their way into a larger student base including seniors and people with disabilities.
“You may find that participating by computer or telephone can give you the learning and social experience you seek,” suggests Ms. Tannenbaum. “You will benefit from reading, researching and listening to the lectures.” Some of these off campus courses are still small enough to allow for discussion, while others are similar to the large lecture series at some universities, where there is no time for questions during the lecture.
Learner Beware:
Know yourself and your learning style.
Be careful when you consider any form of education, as one style of learning might work better for some people than others. Online learning could be more difficult than classroom courses if you don’t have the discipline to prepare for the lecture ahead of time. On the other hand, online courses could be perfect if it is hard for you to get around or being home in front of a computer allows you to concentrate better.
Be aware of how you participate.
Some colleges have had to limit the auditing enrollment to be sure that they are properly addressing the needs of the enrolled undergraduates. While some professors can handle a lively discussion or interjection from a senior auditor, other professors have struggled with auditing students whose comments and questions take the class off track. To help reduce these conflicts of interest ahead of time, find out if there are any participation rules for the classes you would like to audit.
Schedule a time of day that works.
Be conscious of how classes can fit in with or disrupt your schedule. “Don’t schedule learning when you will be too tired or when traveling will be too much of a hassle,” cautions Ms. Tannenbaum. “You don’t want to spend half the class worrying about missing the bus that will take you home.”
Do your homework
Many community centers and school districts offer continuing education classes. However, if these don’t interest you, research what is available to you at the local community college or university. You may be surprised to find an environment that encourages participation from the community in various ways.
Determine if there are programs specifically designed for your needs and interests. What are their requirements? How much preparation will be required? Are the costs, if any, within your budget?
While you may have been out of the educational community for many years, some things don’t change. Remember that part of being a student is taking responsibility for your own education. This may include finding your way through odd regulations and massive choices so that you can feel at home in an institute of higher learning. You are never too old to learn, as long as you are prepared to put in some effort!
