There is also an exercise class designed for ILR members. At the heart of the ILR program are Study Groups selected by a Curriculum Committee. Study Groups are designed, coordinated, taught and evaluated by ILR members themselves, and usually grow from the careers or avocations of the members. Volunteer members, including faculty, retired faculty, independent scholars and community experts, lead the Study Groups. In a few Study Groups class members lead discussions and present the results of their own research.
Guest lecturers enrich many Study Groups.
Several groups take advantage of the unique opportunities for field trips presented by Washington and its environs. All courses benefit from the interesting backgrounds and broad horizons of Washington-area residents. The program consists of two terms, each ten weeks long. Fall term begins in late September, and spring term starts early in March. Study Groups meet once a week for two hours, morning or afternoon, and there are no evening classes.