ABOUT VISTAS SEMINARS
The original format for VISTAS seminars was a series of six morning sessions meeting once a week on topics generated by the membership and approved by the Curriculum Committee. In addition, occasional single-session seminars and social events were presented in afternoons or evenings.
That format has evolved into a more varied pattern to include seminars varying in length from two to eight sessions offered in both mornings and afternoons to better meet the wishes and schedules of the membership. Single session seminars and social events continue to be popular.
The Curriculum Committee does an annual member murvey to determine topics of interest, and then attempts to identify members and/or outside experts willing to develop and present seminars in those areas. Members are also encouraged to join the Vistas “faculty” by leading seminars in topics of particular interest to them.
Seminars emphasize peer-led discussions rather than lectures, with class size limited at the discretion of the presenter; enrollments vary from 12 to 60 or more. VISTAS members are highly educated, widely traveled and have rich life experience, thus lively discussions continue unabated through refreshment breaks and after classes. For most seminars, there is a recommended reading list of readily available books, and additional materials are often given to enrollees at the class meetings.
Seminars are held in a variety of locations in and around Santa Barbara including Valle Verde and Maravilla Retirement Communities, the Karpeles Manuscript Museum and the Goleta Public Library. VISTAS has audio-visual equipment available for presenting Power Point lectures, movies, videos and other such material.
As of 2009, the fee schedule for seminars is:
Six sessions $50 for members, $75 for nonmembers
Three sessions $30 for members, $45 for nonmembers
(Shorter and longer seminars priced proportionally)
Single events - $15 to $20 per person
Go to Join VISTAS for information on membership form and fees.
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