Aliens Across the Galaxy – David DeGraff
Let’s take a look at aliens in science fiction stories and novels (and maybe a movie or two) and look at how reasonable their biology is. Class time will be spent discussing the aliens in the short stories/novels we’re read, and working on ideas for our own aliens. The final project will be a presentation of your own alien design, or an analysis of an alien from a science fiction work not discussed in class.
Political Film: Protest on Screen – Robert Reginio
In this course we will screen and analyze all sorts of movies with explicit political subject matter—from Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing, to Studio Ghibli’s Valley of the Wind, and documentaries like How to Survive a Plague (about AIDS activists) to consider a.) if and how great art can be made about explicitly political themes and b.) how these films are understood by us now during a time of political turmoil. We’ll ask how past crises can inform the present, and how culture in general can forcefully respond to an era of crackdowns, political exclusions, and climate change. Students will present on the films over the course of the seminar and that work will culminate in the creation of a podcast in which the films we screen – and others – will be reviewed for a wider audience.
Financial Wellbeing – Mark Lewis
Do you want a brighter financial future? Do you want your wellbeing to include your finances. In this class we will explore the latest research and insights on our relationship with money, how our attitudes and beliefs can support (or detract from) our wellbeing, and how people routinely make financial decisions that are not in their best interests. Investing lessons from Warren Buffett, as well as investing principles, will also be explored. Primary activities will include reading two paperbacks, in-class discussions, and developing individual statements and plans. We will also spend time in class working together real-life scenarios involving the value of money over time, and will invite guest speakers to share expertise with us. NOTE: This course fulfills the AU Wellness graduation requirement.
Gone to the Dogs – Andy Eklund
The symbiotic relationship between dogs & humans has evolved over time, and is shown through mythology, history, and culture. We’ll examine the science and evolution of dogs, occupations of dogs, the economics of dog/pet ownership in the USA, and partake in debates on “adopt don’t shop”/breeds vs. mutts, kill versus no-kill shelters, and stereotypes of dog breeds. We’ll talk about the mutual benefits of owning a pet. Students will give group presentations, perform outreach at local shelters and rescues, and have a team trivia final exam.
Maple Syrup: The Real Thing – Laurie L. Meehan
“Wanted: Someone with a background in meteorology, chemistry, botany, forestry, art, engineering and cookery who is also a nature lover with lots of patience. Must also be able to work outdoors in changing weather conditions.” While true of a maple syrup producer, don’t let the description scare you away! The exploration and understanding of maple syrup happens through the lens of many disciplines. This class is an introduction to the elements and aspects surrounding real maple syrup using readings, discussion, activities, field trips, and hands-on experiences as well as enjoying a multitude of foods made with maple syrup. A capstone project of the student’s choice rounds out the class requirements.
The Pharmaceutical and Health Care Industry – John D’Angelo
How are drugs discovered? How are their safeties determined? How much does it cost? Who pays for it? Why do medicines cost so much? Why is health insurance so expensive and how does it impact our access to care? Have you ever asked yourself such questions? All these questions and more will be answered as we discuss the pharmaceutical and health care industry. The good, the bad, and the ugly of this necessary industry, including drug advertising and the recent political impacts on the industry will be covered. No prior experience in a science class is necessary.
Quest for Knowledge: Dungeons & Dragons – Danielle Gagne
Seasoned players, Dungeon Masters, and newbies can join this honorific quest for knowledge to explore why Critical Role and Stranger Things have brought Dungeons and Dragons out of basements and into mainstream pop culture. Adventurers in this course will be introduced to the basic game rules and mechanics. Weekly encounters with ancient and contemporary scrolls of knowledge will help adventurers build character sheets based on discussions of the societal impact of the game, values, sexism, racism, role-playing and identity, religion and magic, and morality. At the end of term, adventurers will present a character sheet based on a well-known persona and try their luck, skills, and new knowledge in a campaign.
