THE INSTITUTE FOR LEARNING IN RETIREMENT (ILR)
at American University is dedicated to the proposition that learning is a lifelong process. ILR has developed an exciting program of study for retired and intellectually active persons who wish to pursue learning with others of like curiosity. Establishment of the Institute for Learning in Retirement, one of the first of its kind, began with one retired person's search for a way to remain active and creative. He convinced the University to accept the Institute as an outreach program and to nurture it in its early years. Since it was established in 1982 some 250 other ILR's have been created across the U.S. and Canada. The ILR believes in the concept that people learn from each other in a variety of ways, by listening, reading, discussing, leading or making presentations to groups, and by informal conversations during social interludes. There are no tests or papers, no degrees, credits or grades -- just the pleasure of learning.

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
In addition to the rich assortment of Study Group offerings in the regular Fall and Spring programs, ILR offers its members many other opportunities for intellectual stimulation and socialization. On Tuesday noon during the Spring and Fall semesters, members enjoy lectures by eminent Washingtonians or A.U. faculty. In January and June, after the regular sessions are over, free lectures are offered three days a week. These lectures often feature panel discussions, authors of recently published books, or local experts and enthusiasts. The camaraderie among ILR members is enhanced by social events. There is an Open House at the beginning of each term, a Holiday Party in December and the Annual Meeting in May. Sustaining physical well being is considered important, and ILR members may join the University Fitness Center for a reduced fee. There is also an exercise class designed for ILR members.

CURRICULUM
At the heart of the ILR program are Study Groups selected by a Curriculum Committee. Study Groups are designed, coordinated, taught and evaluated by ILR members themselves, and usually grow from the careers or avocations of the members. Volunteer members, including faculty, retired faculty, independent scholars and community experts, lead the Study Groups. Over 40 Study Groups are offered each term in Politics & Government, Literature & Drama, History, Psychology & Sociology, Music & Art, Science & Technology, and Economics. Most Study Groups follow a traditional lecture/discussion model. In a few Study Groups class members lead discussions and present the results of their own research. Guest lecturers enrich many Study Groups. Several groups take advantage of the unique opportunities for field trips presented by Washington and its environs. All courses benefit from the interesting backgrounds and broad horizons of Washington-area residents. The program consists of two terms, each ten weeks long. Fall term begins in late September, and spring term starts early in March. Study Groups meet once a week for two hours, morning or afternoon, and there are no evening classes.

MANAGEMENT
The Institute for Learning in Retirement is a non-profit corporation affiliated with American University. A board of twelve directors manages the ILR with support from a small staff. It has a long-standing affiliation with the Elderhostel Institute Network. A self-supporting institute, ILR relies on members' dues for its financial needs and member volunteers for all committees and program administration.

MEMBERSHIP
Retired, semi-retired and other interested people are eligible for membership in the ILR. There are no academic or experience requirements, and members bring to ILR a wide diversity of backgrounds. ILR does not discriminate on the basis of color, religion or ethnic origin. ILR membership is limited by the size of the facilities. At present, membership is limited to about 400 participants. Each member can register for three courses per term from a catalog of over 40 courses. A fourth course may be added on a space-available basis. Fees, although subject to change, are presently $190 for one term or $350 for the full year.