Courses and Potpourri Sessions

We wish to thank all instructors in the Learning in Later Life program for generously volunteering their time and expertise to present these courses and potpourris to our members.

Since its establishment in 1989, the Institute for Learning in Later Life (LLL) has reflected Springfield College’s guiding philosophy of humanics – education of the whole person in spirit, mind, and body. Each semester, LLL offers its members a variety of classes, trips, and social events. We invite you to join LLL.

Courses:

Recent American History, Part II: Cold War to John F. Kennedy
Instructor: Dr. Dietrich Schlobohm, Professor of History Emeritus, Springfield College
This series of courses explores America’s history from the 1930’s to the present. Part II of the series will examine the origins and high lights of the Cold War, the Korean War, McCarthyism, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Kennedy Presidency. The focus will be on events, problems, personalities, and ideas that significantly shaped our nation’s history. As usual personal experiences are welcomed.
Dates: Wednesdays October 8, 15, 22 and 29
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Marsh Memorial Chapel

Talking Books
Peer Instructor: Jane Landon
Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to add to your personal reading list. Offer your input, opinion and interpretations of selected readings during our lively book discussions. We recommend you read the books by the scheduled discussion dates; however, it is not a requirement.

“The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit” by Lucette Lagnado
“Harriet and Isabella” by Patricia O’Brien
“Mockingbird” by Charles Shields

Dates: Mondays, September 29, October 27, and November 24
Time: 10:00 a.m. – noon
Location: Brennan Center 1

Opera in the Romantic Age
Instructor: Guy McLain, Director of the Connecticut Valley Historical Museum
This class will consist of a survey of opera in the nineteenth century, exploring the most important trends of that day. Composers to be covered will include: Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, Strauss, and Debussy.
Date: Thursdays, September 25, October 2, 9,16
Time: 9:30 -11:30 a.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

Hands-On Art for Non-Artists
Instructor: Dr. Leslie Abrams, Professor of Art Therapy, Springfield College
Enjoy a couple of fun mornings working on art projects with Dr. Abrams and the graduate students in her advanced art courses. Class size is limited to the first 20 registrants.
Dates: Thursdays, October 30, and November 6
Time: 10 a.m. to Noon
Location: Blake Hall, Visual Arts Center

The Bear Truth
Instructor: Dennis Gildea, Associate Professor, Springfield College
We will view and discuss ESPN's 2002 film “The Junction Boys”, a biopic portraying "How Ten Days in Hell with Bear Bryant Forged a Championship Team" at Texas A&M in the mid-Fifties prior to Bryant’s move to University of Alabama. The film is based on Jim Dent's 1999 bestseller of the same name, and both are examples of what scholars call "the classic sports narrative." We will examine the reality and the mythology of the film, and in particular look at The Junction Boys as a product of the all-powerful ESPN sports media empire. Other than as a money-making venture, why would ESPN make the film choosing the content it did and why omit other seemingly pertinent content?
Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays: November 11, 13, 18
Time: 3:00-4:15 p.m.
Location: Weiser Hall 008

Early Doris Day Film Festival
Peer Instructor: Jack Weldon
Long before Rock Hudson pursued Doris Day in the classics “Pillow Talk”, “Lover Come Back” and “Send Me No Flowers”, she was a big star at Warner Brothers. Come and see her early films: “On Moonlight Bay”, “By the Light of The Silvery Moon”, “My Dream is Yours” and “I’ll See You in My Dreams”.
Dates: Mondays, September 29, October 13, November 3, 10, 24
Time: 1-3:30 p.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

A Study of the Politics of Fall 2008
Instructor: Dr. Dan Russell, Professor, Springfield College
The 2008 national elections will be among the most important in recent history and the Presidential match up will result in a unique president in one form or another. The Congressional elections have the potential to be very decisive. Also, the impact of this election on war and peace, social and economic policy, and the Supreme Court will be enormous. We will examine and analyze the campaigns in terms of outcome and meaning for our political system.
Dates: Tuesdays, October 21, 28 and November 11
Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Marsh Chapel

Classic American Novels: “The Awakening” by Kate Chopin and “The House of Mirth” by Edith Wharton
Instructor: Dr. Alice Knox Eaton, Associate Professor, Springfield College
In this class we will examine the role of women at the turn of the 20th century in two classic American novels, Kate Chopin’s “The Awakening” (1899) and Edith Wharton’s “The House of Mirth” (1905). Please read The Awakening for the first class.
Dates: Tuesdays, September 23, 30 October 7
Time: 10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.
Location: Marsh Memorial Chapel

Building a Solar Cooker Workshop
Instructors: Dr. William Bradley, Professor Emeritus, Western New England College, and Dr. Alan Karplus, Professor Emeritus, Western New England College
Learn about and construct solar cookers for use at home! After a brief introduction to the several types of solar cookers, each participant will choose a design and spend the remainder of the workshop building and using the selected cooker. The cookers will be constructed from materials such as cardboard, white glue and aluminum foil. Class size limited to the first 12 participants.
Date: Mondays, October 20 and 27
Time: 1:00 -3:00 p.m.
Location: East Campus: Pueblo

Physics is Phun and Useful
Instructors: Jeff Gagnon, Laboratory Instructor for Math, Physics and Computer Science, Springfield College and Dr. Zenobia Lojewska, Associate Professor of Physics, Springfield College
Our fall topic is How to lower your electric bill. Our use of electrical energy continues to increase due to many factors. We will estimate your family’s usage of electricity by reviewing your electric bills developing a plan to use at least 20 percent less electricity during your next cycle. Please bring your electric bill for analysis.
Date: Thursdays September 25 and October 2
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Schoo Hall, 113

Methods of Theatre Practice
Instructor: Martin Shell, MFA, Associate Professor and Director of Theatre Arts, Springfield College
These classes are an opportunity to experiment with simple methods of creating original material for theatrical expression. Participants need no previous experience in performance or in writing, but must bring a curiosity and desire to see how people can make theatre "out of nothing". The instructor will teach physical and verbal exercises, appropriate to all levels of ability, and guide the group towards working together in sharing their expression.
Date: Mondays October 1, 8, Thursday October 9
Time: 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Location: Reeds Landing

Introduction to Archives
Instructor: Jeffrey Monseau, Archivist, Springfield College
This course will examine the major functions, processes, and principles of an archive. Considering what is a record, there will be an overview of the history and terminology of recordkeeping. We will also consider the types and varieties of archival repositories and the value of historical records beyond traditional research use. Additional topics may include ethics, legal issues, and the role of technology. The second session includes a “show and tell,” of the historical material in the Springfield College Archives and Special Collections. In addition to records that document the history of Springfield College, the Archives also collect primary source material that supports the research interests and the Humanics philosophy of the College. Subject areas of long-term interest to the College include the YMCA, physical education, sport and recreation, camping, and youth/community work.
Dates: Thursdays October 16, 23
Time: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

The Bill of Rights, Part II
Instructor: Carl Fetteroll
Join Carl for a discussion of a current case under review in the United States Supreme Court that will impact how the Bill of Rights is applied over 200 years after it was written. We will end the class with a vote as if we were the current justices and then we will be able to compare our results to the actual Supreme Court decision.
Dates: Wednesday November 5, 12
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Reeds Landing

Islam
Instructor: Dr. M. Saleem Bajwa
Practicing Muslims share the details of their religion in a forum led by Dr Bajwa. The first two classes will be held on campus. We will meet at the Islamic Society in West Springfield for Friday prayer at the Mosque followed by lunch and discussion. (Lunch included)

Class 1
Dates: Fridays October 10,17
Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

Class 2
Date: Friday October 24
Time: 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Location: Islamic Society of Western Massachusetts 377 Amostown Road, W. Springfield

Potpourri Sessions:

A Global Perspective on Study at Springfield College
Instructor: Deb Alm, Director of the Springfield College International Center and a Panel of International Students
From the time of its very first graduating class, Springfield College has been educating students from around the world. Today, international students, interns and visiting scholars represent over fifteen countries and are enrolled in every school of the college. This class will give you an opportunity to hear from students directly what their motivation is to study in the U.S., the challenges they face, and the rewards of taking the Springfield College experience with them as they return to their home countries.
Date: Tuesday October 14
Time: 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Location: Townhouse Conference Room

Nutrition and the USDA Guidelines
Instructor: Richard Wood, Assistant Professor, Springfield College
Using computers this class will be an orientation to the USDA nutrition guidelines including how to analyze your own diet. Two classes offered to accommodate the most participants.
Dates: Tuesday October 7 or Thursday October 9
Time: 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Location: Babson Library 2nd Floor, Computer Training Lab

Humanics in Action Day
Team Coordinators: Suzette Wood and Kathy Smith
Marking its 11th year, Humanics in Action Day is an event that unites the people of Springfield College and its surrounding neighborhoods on a variety of community service projects. For the first time, Learning in Later Life is forming a project team. Our assignment will be announced in the next few weeks. Last year we read to school children at the White Street School. After we complete our project we gather for a campus wide cookout! Springfield College ID’s are required
Date: Thursday September 18
Time: 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Location: Meet at Blake Track

El Salvador: A Country of Contrasts, Contradictions and Counterrevolution
Peer Instructor: Elliot Stratton
Elliot will share what he learned during a visit to El Salvador with his nephew, a Peace Corps volunteer. Little is known about the people of this country which made headlines during the 1980’s and early 1990’s as a result of revolutionary guerrillas kidnapping and murdering members of religious orders including Archbishop Oscar Romero. A country that has struggled with poverty and has historically been controlled by only 14 families.
Date: Thursday November 20
Time: 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

To Kill a Mockingbird
Peer Instructor: Jane Landon
View and discuss the classic 1962 film starring Gregory Peck, which was based on the Pulitzer Prize winning novel by Harper Lee about the Old South in the 1930’s.
Date: Monday December 1
Time: 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

The Twelve Days of Christmas: The Mystery and Meaning
Instructor: Dr Thomas Bernard, Professor Emeritus, Springfield College
Dr Bernard shares his hypothesis that the lyrics of this popular Christmas Carol reveal a cartographic code of an esoteric route map pilgrims in the Middle Ages used to make the long journey from England to Jerusalem.
Date: Monday November 17
Time: 11:00am-12:00pm
Location: Brennan Center 125

“Sundays in America”
Instructor: Suzanne Strempek Shea
Join popular area author Suzanne Strempek Shea as she shares a discussion of her new book “Sundays in America”, A Yearlong Road Trip in Search of the Christian Faith, along with her other works. Copies of her books will be available for purchase.
Date: Monday, November 10
Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Brennan Center 125

Is Retirement Community Living For You?
Instructor: Executive Director of Reeds Landing, Matt Leahey Ever wonder about the benefits of living in a retirement community? Worried about sacrificing your freedom? Join a panel of residents from Reeds Landing who will share their personal experiences about moving into a retirement community. Light refreshments will be served.
Date: Wednesday October 22
Time: 1:30-3:00pm
Location: Reeds Landing

Special Events

Kick-off Kaffee-Klatsch
The literal meaning of the term is an informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Join old friends and meet new members over coffee, tea, assorted juices, fresh fruit, danish, and muffins. You will be able to pick up your calendars, William Simson Fine Arts Series brochure and other fun and useful information.
Date: Monday September 22, 2008
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30am
Location: Brennan 125
Price: No Charge: MUST RSVP TO Special Programs (413)748-5287

Fall Trips

Mystic Seaport
Join us for a casual day at Mystic Seaport. Whether you want to look at the maritime art in the watch how ships were built, go to the aquarium or just window shop you will have 3 hours to explore the different offerings of this 19th Century maritime village. We will meet for lunch at 1:00 p.m. and depart Mystic at 2:30 p.m. and
return to Springfield College by 4:30 p.m.
Date: Monday October 6
Depart from campus at 8:30 a.m. Return to campus by 4:30 p.m.
Price: $60 (transportation, Mystic Seaport Museum admission and lunch included)

Questions?

Call The Office of Special Programs at (413) 748-5287 or email specialprograms@spfldcol.edu

Look for updates and information on our website:
www.springfieldcollege.edu/specialprograms

Membership
The Institute for Learning in Later Life (LLL) membership and benefits to people aged 55 and older:
Individual $59/semester
Couple $100/semester

Benefits

Enrollment in all LLL courses (Courses fill quickly; registrations are on a first-come first-served basis.)
Priority registration for all LLL trips
Access to Babson Library with lending privileges
Admission to competitive athletic events (except championship games), William Simpson Fine Arts series events, and other campus events at no charge or at reduced rates
Free campus parking

How to Register
1. Complete the membership application. Select your membership category: Individual or Couple.
2. Full members may select courses and potpourris. Please provide all requested information.
3. Return this registration form to the Institute for Learning in Later Life
4. Upon receipt of your registration and payment, we will send you a confirmation letter, course schedule, campus map, and parking permit. We reserve the right to limit course registrations due to classroom space limitations. We reserve the right to cancel classes.
5. Please register only for classes you plan to attend. If you sign up for a class or trip with limited registration, please notify the Office of Special Programs if you ultimately cannot attend. There is always a waiting list, and we can give the next person in line an opportunity to attend if we are notified. No refunds will be made for Kaffee-Klatsch cancellations received less thank five (5) working days prior to the event.
6. Refunds will be made for trip cancellations only if we are able to fill your seat.

Return the completed form with payment to:
LLL Registration, Attn.: Business Office
Springfield College
263 Alden Street
Springfield, MA 01109-3797

Please check all classes you wish to attend. If you sign up for a class or trip with limited registration, please notify the Office of Special Programs if you ultimately cannot attend. There is always a waiting list, and they can give the next person in line an opportunity to attend, if you notify them in advance!

Other Important Information
campus map
driving directions
learning in later life brochure

Downloadable Resources

Springfield College 263 Alden Street, Springfield, MA 01109-3797 413.748.3000
Page updated on: 09/08/2008