The Joy of Lifelong Learning

Author

Active Minds

Posted on

May 08, 2013

Book/Edition

Colorado - Denver Metro , Colorado - Denver North Metro , Colorado - Denver South Metro

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I'm often asked, What is the difference between Lifelong Learning and Education as we typically think of it? Obviously, the similarities are many, but behind this question is usually an important distinction between the way many of us were taught and the way we want to learn.
Generally speaking, when we think of Adult Education we are referring to formal post-secondary schooling college, graduate school, and the like. Pause for a moment and think about what associations you have with this experience. If you're like many of us, your thoughts may include things like homework, grades, writing papers, taking tests, memorizing information, mastering skills, and working hard so you could get a good job. That's the experience most of us had. We may or may not have enjoyed it, but for most people it was a means to an end.
Now, lets contrast this with the concept of Lifelong Learning, which, by definition, is about learning for the pure love of learning. Gone are the pressures to perform and be evaluated. Instead, we are able to engage with topics because we are curious and enjoy the journey of exploration and discovery. Because no one is getting a grade or a degree, the content of lifelong learning programs can be less about facts and figures and more about making great stories come alive. The story of the Civil War, for example, can be transformed from an experience of memorizing dates, names, and battles to learning about the people and issues that contributed to this pivotal conflict in our nations history.
The key here is to not let your preconceived notions of Adult Education keep you from engaging in Lifelong Learning. Recognize that the tables have turned. This time around the experience is not determined by an academic institution, but by you! You are free to engage in learning on your terms, follow your interests, and leave the rest. My guess is that if you do this, you may find the experience very different from your memories of school.
An analogy that seems to fit is the goal of physical fitness. Traditional Adult Education can sometimes be like going to the gym to work out. Good for you, but perhaps not the most fun. Lifelong learning, however, is like going for a mountain hike on a spring day. Full of beauty and joy, combined with the benefits of physical exercise.
See you on the hiking trails!
Editors Note: This article was written and submitted by Zane Robertson.
Zane Robertson is the President of Active Minds, a Denver based provider of educational programs for seniors. He is a frequent speaker on lifelong learning and senior education and has served on the Denver Commission on Aging and the board of the Denver Coalition for Seniors. Active Minds programs are available in most Denver senior residential communities as well as a variety of public venues. For more information, contact Mr. Robertson at 3033207652 or by email at zane@activeminds.com
Copyright 2013 Active Minds. All rights reserved.

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Active Minds

Life Long Learning 990 Krameria St S, Denver, Colorado, 80220

Our mission is to expand lives and minds by providing outstanding educational programs. We believe in lifelong learning and fostering active minds for life.We achieve this by combining excellent teaching with thoroughly researched, compelling topics that matter. We deliver programs on-site, customized to each audience, but always presented objectively so that all perspectives are honored.