Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Course Proposals Due April 30

Russell Cothren

Representatives of the University of Arkansas System's statewide Division of Agriculture lead an OLLI tour of the Arkansas Agricultural Research and Extension Center north of the Fayetteville campus.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, or "OLLI" at The University of Arkansas, is seeking instructors and course proposals for the impending Fall 2019 term.

Established at the U of A in 2007, OLLI has provided an avenue for seasoned adults to convene for a variety of stimulating courses, special events and social activities. It is based in the College of Education and Health Professions.

With over 100 course offerings, OLLI instructors can be as diverse as the courses themselves. If you are an expert in your field or simply a passionate hobbyist, then OLLI is the place for you! Current instructors include current or retired University of Arkansas faculty as well as distinguished community members and other experts. Ideal candidates also include graduate students and doctoral candidates actively pursuing independent research ventures they would like to share.

Teaching with OLLI is a rewarding experience unlike any other.

"I hardly remember in nearly 35 years in the classroom teaching and engaging with such an enthusiastic group of learners," said OLLI instructor Kevin Fitzpatrick, Ph.D. "I'm not sure who did the bulk of the learning, me or them."

It is common for OLLI instructors to donate their instructional time to OLLI. Along with many other benefits, instructors receive mileage reimbursement and have the option to use OLLI courses as community service toward tenure. Teaching for OLLI provides instructors a unique opportunity to present their academic research to seasoned adults in an open-forum classroom setting for in-depth discussions.

Course proposals are reviewed twice a year, the deadlines are April 30 for fall courses and Oct. 31 for spring courses. If you enjoy teaching and sharing your knowledge with others, contact OLLI at 479-575-4545 or
email olli@uark.edu for more information.