A new initiative at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is bringing together students from different stages of life for an enriching learning experience.
Launching this fall, the intergenerational classroom initiative is an opportunity for mature learners to engage in university-level learning and earn course credits in a supportive and welcoming environment.
“The idea of an intergenerational classroom is to allow a diverse set of learners to bring their unique lived experience to the university classroom,” says Dr. Shelley Boyd, Dean of KPU’s Faculty of Arts. “For our younger students, diverse voices and perspectives can really provide an enhanced learning experience.”
A total of 10 seats will be designated to mature learners in two psychology classes, both of which will be held at KPU Surrey:
- Psychology of Genocide, taught by Dr. Kyle Matsuba, explores the psychological foundations of genocide and mass violence. Topics include the roles and perspectives of perpetrators, bystanders, rescuers and survivors, as well as how the field of psychology itself has been shaped by histories of mass violence.
- Psychology of Memory, taught by Dr. Daniel Bernstein, provides an in-depth exploration of human memory, one of the core areas of cognitive psychology. Students will examine major theories of memory from historical and contemporary perspectives, as well as memory development across the lifespan, memory change and memory impairment.
No prior academic experience is required — just an interest in learning and a willingness to engage with the course material and in class discussions. Mature learners will be participating in the same way as their classmates, but instructors will be available to accommodate additional supports as needed.
Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are 65 or older may be eligible for a Senior Citizen Fee Exemption. All other students may request tuition coverage during registration.
Registration is open now, but spots are limited. For more information on how to register, visit the program page.
