The University of the Third Age in the UK: An Interpretive and Critical Study

The idea of the University of the Third Age (U3A) in the UK was originated from France. However, the British formed their own model of U3As, which is different from that of French U3As. What are the reasons that the British U3As developed in a different way? The purpose of this article is to interpret and criticize in-depth the reasons why British U3As did not follow French U3As. This article examines the relationship of U3As with established universities or colleges, the relationship with local governments, and the emphasis on high academic standards.