Winter Term Courses

This course on Science and Society is intended to review historical issues in science and the debate that surrounds societal decision-making. Thus, students will examine this topic from the perspective of scientific process and social inquiry. In addition, we will also review current " hot topics " in science, research these topics from various aspects including societal impacts and scientific advancements. They will also discuss potential resolutions, moving toward becoming more scientifically literate. We will also be discussing current " popular " books on related science. Ultimately, we will compare what the scientists are saying in professional journals versus the interpretation presented to the general public. NOTE: Students are expected to be in their third or fourth year when taking a Connections course.

3 CreditsCONN,CA,CW

This course examines the science and politics of global climate change, including data and analyses in the assessment reports of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The course also examines how governments and other political actors craft and shape policies related to climate change. Special attention will be placed on the extent to which public policy is influenced by scientific evidence and political considerations. NOTE: Students are expected to be in their third or fourth year when taking a Connections course.

4 CreditsCONN,IC

An examination of the convergence of mass media (print, radio, television, sound, film, and internet) which serve our most common public interests. The focus is on the four primary functions to inform, to entertain, to persuade, and to transmit culture. Students have a better understanding of the tension between media as business and its social responsibility to its citizens. This course is not open to seniors.

3 CreditsH, CS

This course focuses on photography and the creation of digital imagery. Students will learn to operate a DSLR camera and complete projects utilizing a variety of photographic techniques and genres. Students will learn to express visual concepts through photography while utilizing specific techniques unique to the creation of digital photographic artwork. Final works will be exhibited electronically and in print. Students will also look at the work of contemporary photographers and prepare a presentation on one photographer. The course utilizes primarily Adobe Photoshop on a Mac platform.

4 CreditsF, WK-CE  

This class examines racism as a cultural system observed through our beliefs and practices about spoken English. The goal of the course is to develop an understanding of how linguistic prejudice contributes to the cultural programs of racism in the US.

3 CreditsSW-US 

This course introduces students to the concept of systems, reviews ecological systems, and then goes on to human systems as these impact the environment. The course will explore the two forces that are at the core of most environmental impacts (climate change, ozone depletion, air and water pollution, and a loss of biodiversity) will be explored as will the fundamental attributes of agriculture, food, soil, and water. Throughout, the influence of culture, society, ethics, and science on the environmental problems will be discussed. 

4 CreditsN, WK-SP, CTGISPre-Req or Co-Req: FYC-101 or EN-110 or EN-109.

This course explores popular musics throughout American history, from Revolutionary War era through 20th century. Units on mainstream pop/rock, jazz and its ancestors, early town bands, musical theatre, country, fragmentation of the market in the 1960's, and other topics are included. Students complete various presentations and readings on topics affecting the development of mainstream pop music.

4 CreditsF,WK-CEPrerequisite: FYC-101 or EN-110 or EN-109.

Analyzes the principles and practice of international relations and the foreign policy of the United States, political, diplomatic, military and economic.

4 CreditsS, I, SW-GE