Film Studies                         

This semester our choice of director is noted British personage, Lord Richard Attenborough, David's older brother. Now 82, his acting and directing career has spanned over 60 years, roughly equivalent to our lifetimes. Remember Oh what a lovely war, and Ghandi? So what makes him different to other directors? Come along, enjoy his films, and have your say.

3 hours every 4 weeks

 

Politics                                  

Join with a friendly light hearted group who will have you informed, thinking and challenged on political systems and situations at local, state and international levels. Follow elections in countries which have relationships with Australia and are of interest to us. Participate in interactive discussions and our own brand of “20 Questions”                       

2 hours per fortnight

 

Literature      

Literature includes images as well as text. In addition to novels, plays, films, poems, there are TV shows, documentaries, feature films, and even advertisements to be ‘read’ and assessed for the stories they tell and the way they are constructed. Whatever your taste in media, it is likely to be catered for and you may well be surprised by exciting new ideas.            

2 hours per fortnight

 

China: culture and society

Each session will focus on a different aspect of China’s complex and intriguing society and culture. There will be time for discussion of current happenings in China as reported in the media.

2 hours per fortnight                                                                                                                                 

 

Art appreciation
The manager of the Exhibitions Gallery in Wangaratta has created a course especially for U3A. Each session will consist of a presentation by an artist about his/her work followed by a tour of the current exhibition hosted by Gallery staff. The term ‘artist’ is inclusive of any type of creative endeavour so be prepared to have your artistic sensibilities stretched! This is a very exciting venture which will be warmly welcomed.

2 hours per month

 

 Religious Studies

This semester we will be exploring various faith journeys of class members. Traditional thinking on religions will be investigated from modernist and humanist perspectives? Class members will be provided with their own copies of The Future Church, A Speculative Dream, by John Shelby Spong. Regular guest speakers will form a vital part of our study together with visits to a number of faith centres. Workshops will be conducted on the Buddhist, Spiritualist, Lutheran and Episcopalian faith traditions.                                                                                 

2 hours per fortnight

 

French for beginners and French conversation

The content of this course will be tailored to the needs of the participants so it will cover a basic introduction to the language as well as provide practice for those who are a little rusty ie haven’t spoken French since school! This course is ideal for those people who are contemplating a trip to France because the geography, history, and culture of France will also be discussed. 

2 hours per fortnight

 

 Unleashing your creativity

This course is all about how you turn your dreams into a reality. Whether you are a writer, an artist, a musician, dancer, gardener, cook or craft lover; or whether you are trying to find ways to make your life easier, it’s worth the time to learn to tap into your creative potential!

Studying creativity takes in the disciplines of philosophy, psychology and cognitive science. The intention is to keep the focus practical rather than academic.

2 hours per fortnight

 

Australian history

One topic will be Change and Development (1851-1900) which includes 'the impact of gold', and the wave of immigration which resulted from that discovery. Another topic will explore Military History including British Regiments.  We start with the Royal Marines, who arrived with the First Fleet, followed by the Frontier Wars and 'Soldiers of the Queen', Australia' s Colonial Wars.  As a third topic, we will study ‘Australian Attitudes’ and try to define 'Nationalism' and the 'Cultural Cringe'. Then we will follow the path to 'Democratic Federation' and its legacy.                   

2 hours per fortnight

 

Introduction to Computers for Seniors

This is a basic course for people who want to start using a computer. It will be held at Pangerang Community House and U3A will provide a tutor who has experience in teaching seniors.  Reserve your place by calling Pangerang on 5721 3913                                                

5 x 2 hours per week