LEARNING IN A RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE

Residential Learning has been described as a lifelong benefit. It can be seen as complimentary to other forms of adult learning or indeed as a learning opportunity in its own right.

The ARCA colleges all share a special atmosphere that is rarely experienced in larger educational institutions.

The 30 member colleges offer:

• courses that vary in length from a weekend to one or two weeks

• a liberal approach to learning with an emphasis on enjoyment and personal development

• a wide participant age span ranging from 18 to 80 and beyond, with strong support from third age and female learners

• very high teaching standards through the selection of the most experienced and skilled tutors from across the country

• friendly, informal and safe learning environments

• an enormous subject range.

So what is special about learning in a residential setting?

Perhaps the best way of answering this question is to look at learner perceptions.

Some talk about the opportunities for concentrated study that a weekend or longer will provide:

I felt that total immersion in the subject over 2 days produced a reaction which I could not have experienced by coming to the same set of lectures at (weekly) intervals.
(Elizabeth H.)

Others speak of the freedom from external distractions for example not having to worry about cooking meals, tidying up after each session or family interruptions:

You can turn off from everyday life and study the subject, returning informed and refreshed for a more stimulating life.
(Chris J.)

Some see the splendid buildings and delightful surroundings in which most of the colleges are located as providing an inspiring environment in which to learn:

The wonderful environment contributed greatly to the overall experience. I was able to focus totally on the course and its subject matter.(Judy T.)

For others it is the safe and supportive educational setting that is important and its role in helping them to achieve their full educational potential:

Most of the people I have met (at the residential college)... have not had university level education and they, particularly, have stressed to me how richly rewarded they feel to at last (in later life) be enabled to study fully, in a concentrated period of a weekend or a few days subjects they never had the chance to study so deeply and rewardingly.(Harold B.)

The choice of subjects offered is immense and the standard of teaching is consistently very high, so for many:

(it would be) impossible to find the same calibre of tutor at my local college. (Ann M)

It should not be overlooked that some students are unable to attend classes on a weekly (non-residential) basis. For instance:

Residential courses suit me in many ways better than evenings due to other commitments, working many evenings as we do shifts, and (there is) no public transport to many classes in outlying parts of the city. (Patricia S.)

The same argument applies to many students with physical disabilities.

Many students see the extended opportunities for social interaction as being a key part of the residential learning opportunity:

The main advantage of a residential course is that the teaching extends beyond the classroom. After class, students and tutors continue to exchange ideas on the subject being taught...(Sue B.)

For others the residential experience can be a lifeline:

I was bereaved just before my first course here so this kind of thing was very important, as it is for all students living alone and trying to build a new life. (Ros L.)

While for some there is a link between learning and improved health:

To keep the mind active and alert....

It enables older students to adjust to the new life in retirement and the approach of old age with its inherent problems. (Rosemary C.)

So for people from all walks of life and whatever their ability the colleges within ARCA can offer worthwhile opportunities for learning in a residential setting.

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