GWSA Seniors enjoy challenging conventional wisdom and exploring important issues through round-table discussions.

Starting in September 2011, the fall sessions for peer learning will sparkle with fun and brisk discussions on the following topics.

Winter 2012 Topics

The Perceived Decline of the West and Rise of Asia

January 23 - March 13
Mondays 9:30-11:30 am - Moderator Barb McLeod
Telephone: 519-823-2531
Course # 129648

Is our Western civilization in decline? What is causing our current economic crisis? How long will rising oil prices affect our way of life?

Can we compete with the rising economic power of China and India? Will the industrialized East eventually dominate the world?

Are we experiencing moral and cultural decline as well? Is our society becoming materialistic, spiritually bankrupt, and devoid of human values? Is this decline invevitable, or are we experiencing a new kind of world with its own challenges and opportunities.

Join us for a discussion of all sides of the argument.

Historical Figures Who Impacted Civilization

January 24 - March 13
Tuesdays 1:30- 3:30 pm - Barry Cabena
Telephone: 519-822-2172
Course #129649

Throughout history great personalities have emerged who have changed the course of civilization. These people include philosophers, military leaders, writers, musicians, scientists, exporers, inventors etc.

A few examples include Napoleon, Plato, Buddha, Churchill, Einstein, Caxton, Bach, Raphael, Marx, Hitler, Elizabeth I - the list is endless.

Who has had a strong infulence on your life - on your way of thinking, feeling, and actions?

Join a group of open-minded people, and take part in the lively discussion these presentations will evoke.    

Islands of the World

January 26 - March 15
Thursdays 9.30-11.30 am - Moderator Ross Coulter
Telephone: 519-821-3993 Course #129650

Have you ever wanted to island hop? There are thousands of islands - join us to explore their origins, history, culture and economy.

Sicily with Mt. Etna and the Mafia, Mozambique with its unique wildlife, Greenland, Sri Lanka, Pitcairn Island of Fletcher Christian and Bounty fame, the idyllic Caribbean Islands, Cyprus and Crete and their unique history are but a few from which to choose.

Sessions should be interesting and informative. Bring some of your own personal experiences along and share them with the group.

How Peer Learning works

Each session consists of two twenty minute presentations, followed by group discussion and exploration of the issues and points of interest raised.

A moderator facilitates the smooth running of the program and encourages full group participation. Participants bring their own ideas and experience to the sessions, and all benefit from the exchanges. With the number of participants limited to 14, everyone's voice is heard, and the discussions are thoughtful, meaningful.

At the first meeting, participants select the aspect of the topic which interests them and determine the date of their presentation

Participants then research their chosen topic and prepare their presentation. The form of the presentation is quite open - it may be just a talk, or it may include handouts, or even a formal presentation - it is up to the individual

Peer learning is a social, interactive experience. All participants are enthusiastic and eager to learn, and want to hear about your particular point of view. So do not be intimidated by the prospect of "giving a talk". It is more like a friendly exchange of ideas at the village pump, or by the office water cooler.

Sessions are held at the