Pete Harrigan of Rehoboth Beach, Del., is a retired communications executive marking his tenth year as a member of UD’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), recently teaching courses in such subjects as the news media, and New York City’s bridges and tunnels. When the pandemic resulted in suspension of OLLI’s in-person programs, he adapted his classes to a live-online format.
In this video, Harrigan invites new and returning participants to try out UD OLLI Online’s Spring 2021 semester.
[Click here to watch the video directly on YouTube.]
Harrigan credits OLLI staff and volunteers for providing the training and support that made the online classes a positive experience. “Our wonderful virtual classroom assistant [an OLLI volunteer] monitored the class chat board, and we took frequent breaks in the presentation to allow for discussion.”
“Learners in my virtual classroom came up with just as many great questions and just as much excellent discussion as those in the live classes,” added Harrigan.
With UD’s OLLI locations partnering across Delaware to offer UD OLLI Online as a cooperative program, OLLI members who previously attended only one location — like Wilmington, Dover, Lewes or Ocean View — found they enjoyed the opportunity to learn alongside fellow OLLI members from UD’s other sites. As an instructor, Harrigan agreed, adding, “I had the chance to meet and instruct folks from other OLLI locations, people I’d never have met without virtual learning.”
More than 200 UD OLLI Online courses are offered this spring in subjects like African American literature, iPhone photography, beginning band, craft circle, languages (American Sign Language, French, German, Italian, Latin, Spanish), investing, quantum physics, Laurel and Hardy, computer coding, gardening, genealogy, railroad history and much more.
OLLI classes focus on learning for fun and enrichment, with no exams or grades. Past OLLI membership is not required to join UD OLLI Online. Both new and returning OLLI participants are invited.
Spring 2021 classes start February 22 and April 5 in 11-week and 5-week formats. Free training and technical support is provided to participants.
For more information, click here to view the course listings or registration information.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Delaware
OLLI is an academic cooperative for adults 50 and over to enjoy classes, teach, exchange ideas and socialize together, with no exams or educational requirements for participation. OLLI welcomes you.
Kent/Sussex | Wilmington
