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Lifelong Learners Needed

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By JESSICA BALANZA

jbalanza@tampatrib.com

Published: March 18, 2009

LAKE MAGDALENE - Fred Zerla stands in a classroom at Lake Magdalene United Methodist Church discussing the history of mathematics.

His students listen attentively while he lectures about Greek numbers and summation and the students jot down notes whenever they see fit.

This class is just one of several offered by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a program offered by the University of South Florida. Osher, which celebrated its 15th birthday in January, provides educational courses for older adults.

Although ultimately anyone can attend the courses, "the classes follow a seniors teaching seniors model," said Ara Rogers, director. "There is no age limit, but the program is designed for groups over 50 because it meets the needs of the target audience."

Rogers said the program initially started to help older adults keep up with the computer era. Now, classes include everything from computers to drama, Florida history and politics.

Some things have changed since the program started. After 11 years of hosting courses at USF's Tampa campus, classes are now offered throughout the community.

"We ventured out of pure necessity," Rogers said. "We really grew by leaps and bounds."

Coordinator Joseph McAuliffe said the program has about 15 partnerships in areas such as Carrollwood, South Tampa, New Tampa and Temple Terrace.

He said this helps students avoid the campus traffic and it bring it closer to the home of the students.

The partnerships "have worked out absolutely fantastic," McAuliffe said. "They are a win-win" situation.

Most classes meet once a week for two hours, and typically range in cost from $30 to $75 per semester. The institute also requires students to become members, which costs $30 a year.

McAuliffe said the program is inexpensive due to it being driven by volunteers.

All study group leaders are retired professors, teachers or someone who has specialized in the field of study. Osher has about 125 volunteers.

"Older people have wisdom and ideas, and should be able to share it to benefit others," Rogers said.

The classes do not test or grade students or require any prerequisites.

"We just come out and talk interesting things to those interested," said Zerla, a study group leader.

"It's good getting involved and meeting people," said Jack Robinson, volunteer and student. "All the students are here for the joy of learning."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute's open house

WHEN: 9:30 a.m. March 25

WHERE: Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St.

INFORMATION: (813) 974-8036 or e-mail ollivol@gmail.com

Reporter Jessica Balanza can be reached at (813) 865-1518.

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