A new season of Third Age Learning at Kwantlen (TALK) begins Sept. 27, promising plenty of creative and stimulating educational activities for adults over the age of 50.
“We are a welcoming group who enjoy the company of other lifelong learners and look forward to others joining us in our affordable courses. We would like to encourage new members to join us as board members and contribute to our ongoing efforts to stay connected, learning, and relevant,” says Jane Diston, TALK board chair.
TALK is a volunteer-run organization that partners with KPU to offer courses ideal for older adults who want to continue learning. Courses are offered either in-person at a Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) campus or online. Most are up to two hours in length. Fees are low thanks to KPU instructors and community professionals who volunteer their time.
The fall season begins with a field trip to Historic Stewart Farm on Sept. 27. Participants will tour this South Surrey heritage property and the 1894 farmhouse.
Other courses this year include: Armchair Travel – Costa Del Sola, a travelogue of Spain’s south coast; Difficult Conversations, how to navigate conversations disrupted by declining health; Fun with Math, exploring math education in an entertaining way; Forensic Anthropology, exploring how human bones are identified; Ghost Stories, learn about the paranormal; Beer Brewing, an introduction to the brewing process; and Don’t Give a Squat, a workshop about the benefits of the simple squat exercise.
The season also includes Philosophers’ Corner sessions, in which a volunteer researches a chosen topic and delivers a 10-minute presentation ahead of a moderated conversation among attendees. These sessions are open to all on a first-come, first-served basis. Topics this year include Canadian identity, society and addiction, truth and reconciliation, relevance of marriage, and climate change. These sessions are held in various locations of Richmond, Surrey, and Langley.
Another highlight is Compelling Conversations featuring Dr. Balbir Gurm of KPU and Dr. Alexandra Lysova of Simon Fraser University, who will discuss preventing relationship violence on Nov. 4 at KPU Surrey. This free event is open to the public, but pre-registration by Oct. 27 is required.
TALK courses are $15, in addition to a $10 annual membership fee. Courses are available through to mid-December and registration is open now. Visit the TALK website to view the schedule and to register.