The Philosophical Roots of Seniors College of PEI

Seniors College of PEI, although having a unique history growing out of research at UPEI, is also part of a world wide movement known in many places as the The Université du 3ième âge - a concept that has circled the globe and flourished since it first developed in Toulouse, France, in 1972. Today it is often called U3A in the UK and in Australia. Other areas use terminology like Life Long Learning, Learning in Retirement as well as Seniors College.

Most operate as self-help, self-managed lifelong learning co-operatives for older people no longer in full time work, providing opportunities for their members to share learning experiences in a wide range of interest groups and to pursue learning not for qualifications, but for fun.

The constitution of Seniors College of PEI when first drafted on 1999 stated a philosophy that included a vision, mission and objectives.

Vision

A seniors governed, volunteer, membership based organization providing welcoming, comfortable, affordable learning for all seniors (50+), with a wide range of academic level, non-credit peer learning opportunities. The college advocates life long learning, seniors oriented research and the concept that continued learning enhances life quality.

Mission

The mission of seniors. college is to enhance the quality of life of seniors by the provision of peer learning opportunities through academic level courses and programs.

Objectives

* to be responsive to the needs and interests of seniors;
* to provide responsible peer learning opportunities for members;
* to provide structures for seniors to share skills, knowledge, expertise and life experiences;
* to be a knowledge resource to the community;
* to collaborate-partner with other organizations that share common goals;
* to develop linkages with other organizations to further the college;
* to initiate and participate in research on relevant subjects;
* to have fun!

In 2005 that was restated in a revised constitution as:

The mission of the College is to provide educational opportunities in an atmosphere where seniors from all walks of life and from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds may enjoy life-long learning, and where the economic, environmental, social and cultural well-being of individuals, their communities and the planet may be enhanced through continued learning.