Age is no deterrent to learning

By Chris Shott
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

More than 30 people who live at Brooksby enrolled in a four-class continuing education course held on campus under the aegis of a local four-year college.

The program, “People in the Arts III,” was sponsored by the Explorers Lifelong Learning Institute of Salem State College (SSC). The SSC chapter is one of an estimated 400 similar organizations in the U.S. and Canada today that are affiliated with Elderhostel and offer organized learning programs for people age 50-plus.

Noted artists
For two hours weekly, Brooksby members participated in classes led by retired educators, which focused on discussing the lives and accomplishments of noted artists.

The first class—taught by Elaine Antonakes, past president of the Explorers LLI of Salem State—focused on artist Georgia O’Keefe. Michael Antonakes, retired chair of the SSC English department, explored poets of World War II in the second class.

Former educator Mary Nazzaro taught the third session on composer Giuseppe Verdi. The final conference highlighted the works of author Ernest Hemingway; retired educator Marie Cocca led the discussion.

Focus on peer learning
According to the SSC website, Explorers “join in active peer learning to share their knowledge and experience in courses that range from lectures and discussions to hands-on workshops and field trips.” Members also benefit from “research with each other by creating, coordinating, and participating in courses.”

The Explorers program does not require academic admissions and does not give tests or academic grades. According to the SSC website, “Explorers encourage people to continue learning, to expand horizons, and to enhance personal development.”

Mary Landry, Brooksby’s community resources coordinator, says interest in the program from those who live there, as well as from others, was significant.