When and Where are learning programs offered?

Sessions are held during week days through the fall, winter and spring. The duration is normally 1½ to 2 hours. Depending on the program.

We meet at the renovated Huron Shores United Church at 25 Main Street in Grand Bend. The facilities are well equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment. Click here to view their website.

Cost

All programs are open – no membership is required. Small event fees (typically $5) cover our costs for hall rent, refreshments, administration and the purchase of courses. We are a non-profit organization.

Types of Programs

Each session has a moderator who organizes and keeps discussions on topic, on time, and cordial.

Historically we have offered courses with a common theme or topic.

• Peer Learning Courses require participants to contribute a short talk on something relevant to the topic. A variety of formats are used: notes, audio visuals, internet resources, or activities. We keep presentations informal. Discussion follows and all attendees are encouraged to take part.
• Discussion Courses may have a moderator who has special expertise in a predetermined topic, or who uses video presentations to stimulate discussion on a topic. Participants do not provide presentations, but do participate in the discussions.
• Activity Courses have a moderator or guest speaker with expertise in a topic and can guide the group in a particular skill or task.

New in 2023 is partnering with the Bluewater Association for Lifelong Learning. BALL is an Owen Sound organization with similar goals to Partners in Learning and with a large membership. They are able to engage subject matter professionals to provided high quality lectures on the selected topic. Presentation are Thursday morning from 10 AM to Noon and are offered to PIL attendees for a small fee at the church via Zoom webinar.

Socrates Café

Join us for a lively discussion on a topic of your choice! All participants submit a topic and the group votes on the one or two topics that will be discussed. Everyone is given an opportunity to express their views. Topics typically come from current affairs, but more philosophical and general subjects can come to the surface. Sessions can occur on Mondays or Tuesdays and happen every second week.

Spring Potpourri

This series offers a selection of 4 or 5, 2 hour sessions with intriguing topics. Venues and times may vary but usually occur Monday PM. The sessions start in early April and continue on consecutive weeks. Take just one or attend all. It is a pleasant and stimulating way to keep your mind active and to meet others who share your interests. The spring Potpourri Program is open to all. Times and fees vary depending on the venue and activity – a car-pool field trip with lunch is frequently involved.

Information about all programs will be posted on this website as it becomes available.