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A process map of the 10 steps to teaching at OLLI.

Would you like to teach at OLLI?
A Guide for Potential OLLI Instructors

Thank you for your interest in teaching at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). OLLI’s mission is to provide an intellectually stimulating and varied curriculum and special activities for persons 50 years of age or older.

Our Guide for Potential OLLI Instructors is designed to provide helpful suggestions while also informing you on what to expect when you teach at OLLI.

If you have any questions, please contact the OLLI office by phone at (207) 780-4406, or by e-mail at olliatusm@maine.edu.

Bring your idea to us and we can you develop it:

  • You could start by chatting with an instructor you know.
  • Talk to Donna Anderson, OLLI Director, or Rob Hyssong, OLLI Program Coordinator.
  • Contact the OLLI office by phone at (207) 780-4406, or by e-mail at olliatusm@maine.edu.

Course or workshop?

  • OLLI offers eight-week terms in the fall and spring, and six-week terms in the winter and summer.
  • Classes are two hours long and are held once a week.
  • Workshops can be two-hour sessions, all-day sessions, or a three-session, two-hour mini course.

In-person, online, hybrid or blended?

  • In-person: USM supports OLLI by providing classroom space, audio/visual equipment, and technology support; classes are usually in the Wishcamper Center.
  • Online: Via Zoom. OLLI offers Zoom training for OLLI faculty as well as Zoom refresher sessions to blow away the Zoom cobwebs!
  • Hybrid: We also offer hybrid classes that allow online participants to join an in-person class.
  • Blended: For those times when we want to take our learning on the road, these include classroom and on-site sessions.

Select the appropriate form for your teaching preference: in-person or remotely via Zoom. For hybrid classes, please use the in-person form.

Course Proposal: IN-PERSON Classes/Workshops

Course Proposal: REMOTE Classes/Workshops

OLLI staff will send deadlines for course and workshop proposals via email to all current and prospective OLLI faculty approximately six weeks before each deadline.

Proposals should be submitted generally four months in advance of the term in which you wish to teach:

  • Summer term: submit by February
  • Fall term: submit by May
  • Winter term: submit by September
  • Spring term: submit by November

Proposal window is closed.

Jun 29 – Aug 6, Monday – Thursday

  • Workshops: Fridays, July 10, 17, and 24
  • Make-up: August 10 – 13

Proposal deadline is May 14.

Session runs September 14 – November 9, Monday – Friday

  • Workshops: Saturdays, September 19, 26, October 3
  • Make-up: November 10, 12, 13, 16
  • SAGE: September 15 – November 3, Tuesdays
  • Consider any resources you will need.
  • You may access the USM Library databases for research and articles you can use as handouts.
  • Tell the OLLI Office if want to share a film or video – we can help provide the best access for you and your students. Let us know at least 4 weeks in advance of the session.
  • Keep talking with the OLLI office team!

You will be invited to an orientation event. We hold one for in-person instructors and one for online instructors before every session. You’ll have a chance to learn what you need to know as an instructor and, even better, meet other OLLI faculty!

In-Person Class Instructors

  • Instructor access to class rosters
  • Understanding when to use a media request form
  • OLLI’s use of listening technology for classroom spaces
  • Photocopying requests

Remote Class Instructors

  • Instructor access to class rosters
  • Sending out Zoom invitations and links to your class participants
  • Tips for managing your Zoom session
  • Identifying tech support needs

Visit the Current Faculty Information page for details on ordering books, classroom setup, Zoom instruction, handouts and materials, and more.

Share your passion!

Looking to make any adjustments in the class? OLLI has a handy feedback form you can use or create your own.

Let’s talk about teaching! The Teachers’ Forum brings together experienced OLLI teachers, returning enthusiasts, and potential future faculty for a morning of knowledge exchange. This event is offered each spring.

  • Free membership in OLLI for the year
  • Two free classes for each course taught; one free class for each workshop taught – and early registration
  • Free parking
  • Access to the USM Library and computer lab, plus a UMaine email and Zoom account
  • Join us for a special, annual luncheon to honor OLLI instructors
  • An appreciation gift