Trinity Western University (TWU) is working with retired professors from Hong Kong and Canada to offer 10-week non-credit courses for students over 55 years old.
“Studying is a lifelong thing,” said Keith Chan, program organizer and a retired professor from the City University of Hong Kong.
“We are living in a world of rapid change, which requires everyone, including seniors, to study constantly and keep up with new technologies,” he said.
The program offers two courses per semester to more than 40 students in areas such as social science, computer and medicine.
Students attend a two-hour course every week to learn theories as well as practical knowledge that can be helpful in everyday life.
The tuition fee is $150 per course. Those completing 75 per cent attendance will graduate from the course.
By completing five courses, students can obtain a general studies certificate from TWU.
“I really enjoy the program,” said student Selena Chan.
“The courses are more in-depth than those offered in communities. Also, other classmates are at the same age and knowledge level as me, which is nice.”
More than 80 per cent of the students are over 65 years-old and the oldest student in the class is over 80, according to Keith.
“They are very motivated to learn,” said Keith. Most students sit in the class 10 minutes before it starts. It means they really look forward to the classes. And students are very active in asking questions.”
For students such as Selena, it’s also an opportunity to socialize and communicate with peers while learning new things.
“Many seniors get together by having a drink or breakfast in the morning. Now, they can come to the class. This is an excellent gathering for them.”
Keith said he got the idea from the senior colleges in Hong Kong, which have existed for more than 15 years with funding from the government.
The courses are currently only available in Cantonese “because of the language background of the instructors,” according to Keith.
But TWU Richmond’s director of operation, Katherine Fayson, said they will consider having senior-only programs in English and other languages in the future.
