Michael BARR    Department   Kyoto Junior College of Foreign Languages  , Department of English Studies for Careers    Position   Associate Professor
Date	2017/09/26
Presentation Theme	A Global Studies Course for Retirees at University Level: A Feasibility Study on Lifelong Learning
Conference	UCEC 2017 - University Community Engagement Conference
Promoters	UCEC
Conference Type	International
Presentation Type	Speech (General)
Contribution Type	Individual
Venue	KUFS, Kyoto, Japan
Publisher and common publisher	Michael D. Barr
Details	In terms of reaching out to the local community and promoting lifelong learning, what better way than to establish a course specifically designed for those over retirement age? Such a program would be beneficial to individuals as well as the institution as a whole. This presentation highlighted research which shows that continued education, and particularly language learning or problem-solving tasks, keep the brain active and can mitigate the onset of dementia. In addition, as the demographics of Japan continue to shift to a more aged population, community engagement must focus on all members of the society, especially those who have a strong need to remain active and connected. Establishing a course for retirees in the community would have far-reaching and positive public relations implications for the University. These area residents have extended families and are connected to local businesses and institutions. Higher education enables these valuable members of the community to remain active and vibrant. Retiree students can promote learning within the university while contributing to the needs of others as they learn about the world.