Today is Tuesday
Dec 02, 2008
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Making the grade |
| | Posted on Monday, March 12, 2007 | | | Marilyn Erwin has always loved gadgets, including her new iPod. Although she prides herself on staying in-the-know about the latest technology, Erwin admits that she used to have difficulty with little things, like setting up her home computer. “When the Monarch Landing Information Technology person came to hook up my computer, he suggested I come to computer classes.”
Always eager to learn something new, especially when it relates to technology, Erwin went to class, and stayed. Now, she’s part of the Monarch Landing computer club. “I feel like a real computer guru now,” she says. (Read more about the computer club on page 8.)
A growing trend
Erwin is part of a growing number of retired Americans who are heading back to class. More than 12 million older adults took college classes or other personal-interest courses from 2004 to 2005, according to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics. That figure is on the rise, emphasizing just how much today’s retirement generation values lifelong learning.
In fact, a survey by the National Council on Aging found that 32 percent of people age 65 or older say lifelong learning is “very important to living a meaningful, vital life.”
Use it or lose it
Rather than a time of leisure, more and more adults are viewing retirement as an opportunity to learn new things, like photography or a foreign language. Those who pursue such educational opportunities tend to be healthier and happier. Studies show that continuous education increases self-confidence, builds a stronger social network, sharpens the mind, and may even fight against Alzheimer’s and other memory-related diseases. Doctors refer to this as a “use-it-or-lose-it” scenario. The more you exercise your brain, the stronger it becomes. | |
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Erwin agrees that pursing new interests and activities leads to a far more stimulating retirement. “Monarch Landing has changed my idea of retirement from a solitary pursuit to being surrounded by wonderful people, and being stimulated by others. All of the classes available and new interests presented to me—that’s my cup of tea,” she says.
Professors love older students
Learners like Erwin are not the only ones who benefit from the recent surge of mature students. An increasing number of studies conducted in college classrooms show that younger, so-called traditional students actually perform better when partnered with older peers. Older students bring diversity and real-life experience to the classroom. Professors also find mature students a tremendous asset as they can reference events unknown to most 18- to 22-year-olds.
Relax, there won’t be a quiz
Colleges and universities are beginning to take note. Recently, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) proposed plans for a retirement facility that shares communal space with the college campus, giving residents access to vast university libraries, cutting-edge technology, and an opportunity to check up on their grandchildren.
Fortunately, for those who aren’t thrilled with the thought of rooming with college students, there are other options. A number of colleges and community colleges allow older students to “audit” courses, essentially taking a class without credit towards a degree, or even a grade.
Some states, including Illinois, have adopted statewide tuition waivers for seniors who wish to take classes at public institutions. However, a fee is often required.
Class at your convenience
Online classes make it even easier for non-traditional students to learn at their convenience. Rather than attend class three times a week, students can log on to view a lecture or participate in a discussion whenever, and from wherever, they want. In the past three years, the number of students enrolled in online courses has doubled to over 3.5 million, according to the Sloan Consortium, an online education group. However, critics of online classes caution that students miss out on the camaraderie and debate of a real-life classroom.
Learning is social
Monarch Landing’s Center for Continuous Learning hosts frequent lectures, classes, and workshops right on campus, providing community members with both convenience and an opportunity to learn firsthand. From a renowned art historian to local musicians to experts in American history, guest speakers are as diverse as their subject matter.
Erwin says that nothing compares to hands-on experience and a lively discussion. “Here, I have interesting, stimulating companionship,” she says. “Recently, in the computer club, I’ve been helping to develop a resident directory and move pictures and facts around to improve my skills. You learn something new every day, and it’s just fun.”
A book-lover since childhood, Erwin also joined the Monarch Landing book discussion group. She says there is no lack of stimulating opportunities for Monarch Landing community members who want and who are willing to try something new. “My problem is picking out the ones that are going to be most important to me, because there’s so much that I want to enjoy,” she says.
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