UNIVERSITY TEACHERS IN SENIOR COMMUNITY AGENCIES

Abstract

University teachers in many disciplines are encouraged to use their academic specialization and teaching skills in agencies that work with older persons. Such community involvement benefits the seniors, the agencies, and the professors who volunteer. In comparison with the college situation, volunteer teachers will find a great degree of flexibility in this environment. Specific rewards for the teachers include demonstration of public service, personal satisfaction derived from teaching an appreciative audience, the opportunity to learn, the acquisition of lecture material for on campus courses, the establishment of a network accessible to teachers and students, and the development of potential research sites. An example of a sociologist and a Foster Grandparent Program is presented as an illustration.