Mature learners are already veteran citizens, but do not always have the knowledge base for understanding science and its connections with society. What they do have is a wealth of life experiences, a zest for life, and the curiosity to explore new areas. From the perspective of this �retired� teacher, what could be better than having an eager class of students who are motivated and ready to learn? Such an environment can be found at the more than 100 lifelong learning institutes endowed by the Bernard Osher Foundation. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Clemson University is a 1000-member organization whose mission includes providing opportunities for mature adults to further their knowledge and to actively contribute to a healthy, well-rounded community. Many retired professionals from all walks of life contribute their time and expertise to our successful program. This paper will describe some of the content, strategies, and challenges inherent when including science and specifically chemistry to engage this cohort of citizens.

Looking beyond our current students: Engaging life-long learners with chemistry

248th National Meeting (2014)

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