Do you have a passion for science or history? Yearn to find fellow enthusiasts for astronomy or the American Revolution? If so, the Academy of Lifelong Learning at Washington College is eager to welcome you to teach its membership.
WC-ALL is a peer-led autonomous department of the College that was created by and for adults who seek intellectual stimulation without the requirement for academic credit. Classes typically meet once a week for four to six weeks, and there are four sessions each year.
John Christie, current chair of the organization, says that one of the group’s challenges is attracting new people to share their interests. “We have a dedicated and talented volunteer faculty, but are always seeking new ideas and topics,” he said.
Instructors need not have had previous teaching experience. “Most of our instructors are retired professionals who volunteer to lead a class for the sheer pleasure of sharing their interests with like-minded individuals,” said Mr. Christie. He’s a good example: a retired lawyer, he annually leads a class that discusses the most recent Supreme Court cases. Then there are Patricia Malloy, a retired communications executive who has a passion for old movies and leads the group that studies classic Hollywood films; and Turner Smith, a retired businessman who shares his interest in the Civil War.
A unique aspect of adult continuing education is that most students have had rich life experiences, so that classes trend more to discussion than lecture. Mr. Christie used the example of an instructor who teaches at Washington College and also taught for WC-ALL. “He used similar material with the undergraduates and WC-ALL, but reported that participation and exchange of ideas by the adult group was particularly broad and enthusiastic.
The Curriculum Committee at WC-ALL will soon be reviewing proposals for classes for the Fall Semester and encourages potential instructors to contact WC-ALL. Course proposal information is on the website, https://www.washcoll.edu/offices/wc-all/ or you may contact Curriculum Committee Chair Jack Stenger at 410-778-6164. The deadline for submissions is June 1.
Each semester, approximately 450 local residents join the Academy to take classes, attend Learn-at-Lunch programs, and participate in trips. WC-ALL is directed by a Council of twelve members elected to three-year terms. Members are encouraged to assist the organization by joining a committee, by mentoring a foreign student, or by teaching a class.
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