Nationally run events and more
There are many different online learning events and other activities, run by the national u3a movement, that are available to you as a member of Tonbridge u3a. Further details of what is available currently can be found on the national u3a website - https:// www.u3a.org.uk/.
Please send any comments using the e-mail secretary@tonbridgeu3a.uk
Free Online Event
Wednesday 18 March from 1pm to 2.30pm
Is tidal and wave power a viable electricity generation source?
John Butler of u3a Let's Talk Tech looks at the technological challenges of tidal and wave power, and how it compares to wind technology.
Wave and tidal power is currently under-utilised compared to offshore wind due to significantly higher, often prohibitive upfront capital costs, immense engineering challenges in harsh environments, and, in many cases, earlier stage, less mature technology. Could that be about to change?
In a video-enabled presentation, John will look at the technological challenges involved, and why wave and tidal projects have been considered to be too expensive for large-scale adoption, compared to wind technology that has scaled up and reduced its operational costs over the last few decades.
This event is for u3a members only.
To register to join this event click here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/is-tidal-and-wave-power-a-viable-electricity-generation-source-tickets-1983962575470?aff=oddtdtcreator
Thursday 26 March from 2pm to 3pm
Deafness and beyond: the tribulation and triumph of Ludwig van Beethoven
One of a series of talks illustrating how the creative arts can enhance our wellbeing.
About the series: A series of talks by Professor Christopher Dowrick, illustrating how the creative arts, including literature, poetry, classical music and contemporary folk/rock, can enhance our wellbeing.
Each talk is self-contained, but all combined give the fullest expression to this theme.
Deafness and beyond: the tribulation and triumph of Ludwig van Beethoven.
Beethoven experiences intense anguish in his early 30s when he realises he is becoming profoundly deaf. In his Heligenstadt Testament he debates whether or not to continue with his life and his art.
This event is for u3a members only.
To register to join this event click here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/deafness-and-beyond-the-tribulation-and-triumph-of-ludwig-van-beethoven-tickets-1982073039818?aff=oddtdtcreator
Free Online Event
Friday 17 April - 2pm to 3pm
The Magic of Magic Squares
In this talk, Alison Eves reveals an intriguing link between a 16th Century Durer etching and a 20th century carving on the Sagrada Familia
Magic squares have fascinated mathematicians for centuries. Magic squares are rich in history, appear in some surprising places, and have astonishing patterns within them.
Together we will explore how magic squares can quickly increase in complexity, going from satisfying puzzles that we can all enjoy, with no mathematical background, to being the subject of academic research, in just 3 orders of magnitude!
We will look at the wonderful patterns to be found within certain examples of magic squares, reflect on examples from different cultures and times, and enjoy a satisfying "Aha!" moment as the link is revealed.
There are also several "party tricks" which can be done with Magic Squares, should you wish to impress your friends and family...
The session is designed for everyone – no advanced maths required, just a willingness to search for pattern – and includes a few simple exercises, so bring paper and something to write with.
This event is for u3a members only.
To register to join this event click here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-magic-of-magic-squares-tickets-1980103922134?aff=oddtdtcreator
For further details including how to book your place on the above events, please go to the national u3a website - https://www.u3a.org.uk/events/u3a-week