10 courses with the subject FYS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
FYS 106A “Novel” Approach to Science Audrey Ettinger
Scientists in movies are often portrayed more negatively than even serial killers. In contrast, several current television shows feature heroic scientists solving crimes in the lab and field with a minimum of effort. In this course, we will examine fictional depictions of scientists and their work, identify typical stereotypes used to describe scientists, and ask why these stereotypes have evolved and what impression of science they create for the public. We will explore examples of children’s literature about scientists and compare these representations to novels intended for adults. Film and television examples of scientists will provide additional discussion material.
What is community and how do you build it? By referencing the visual arts this seminar course directs attention to this question by exploring historical precedents and contemporary examples that illustrate the impact of the artist as a community initiator. Through research and hands-on experiences, students will examine the role of the artist and ways in which art can facilitate building community and positive change. As artists take studio practices beyond the gallery walls communities are invited into a new relationship with the visual arts. By generating dialogue and influencing creative collaborations, communities are realized. With this background knowledge, students will design and implement a community-based art project utilizing HON FYS 117 Coming of Age in a Complex World Carol Pulham The “coming of age” novel has been popular for at least three centuries. Collectively, these novels almost always feature a male protagonist. In this seminar, however, we will focus (more but not exclusively) on the coming of age of women as portrayed in literature and film. We will examine questions such as “What is the nature of rebellion and is it necessary?”, “How does one begin to form one’s own philosophy?”, “How have other women found their voices?” and “How coming of age relates to taking on leadership roles.” The seminar will explore the meaning of “coming of age” in various historical and social contexts, while examining the role that beliefs and critical thinking play in this experience.
FYS 120Finding our Voice: Women in Politics Christine Carpino
Sixty-one percent of Rwanda’s lower house of government is composed of women. Compare that to the 28% in the United States. What explains these differences? Why has it traditionally been so difficult for women in the US to break the glass ceiling of the highest political offices? This course will examine the role of women in politics. We’ll explore how women’s relationship to government has changed over time and the barriers that women have confronted in their pursuit of elected office. In addition to discussing more formal means of political engagement, we will also continually return to the theme that the “personal is political.” Everything we do is touched in some way by politics and recognizing and advocating for ourselves is a key HON FYS 126 Age of Protest Roxanne Amico Social change comes through public awareness, education through debate, and eventually changes to existing laws. Dramatic material has the power to draw attention to social change. Through research and original writing, students will explore ways to dramatize issues of importance to their generation either by taking up a new cause or extending the reach of a current protest movement by: expanding the frame of the impossible picking a defining fight securing an early win Protests can take many forms. Protests are strong complaints, objections, or disapprovals. Protests often speak to a specific audience and are dedicated to calling attention to a specific grievance using buzzwords, images, and stories. Protests are often improvised and can become violent, but behind all successful protest movements are multiple strategies.
FYS 141Apocalypse and Dystopia in Film and Literature Michael Zalot
This course introduces students to the twin ideas of apocalypse and dystopia in film and literature. Apocalypse suggests catastrophic events that decimate civilization and reduce humanity to survival-level existence; dystopia suggests systematic changes to society that lead to fear and repression for its inhabitants. Students will examine the historical roots of these ideas in literature, and well as their expression in more contemporary media such as anime, manga, and popular film. This will include comedic works as well, where the end of civilization or the rise of a repressive one is used to frame humor based on characters or plot. Also discussed will be how these works are received by audiences, and some cognitive/emotional function HON FYS 142 Science Talk: Science controversy and communication in the misinformation age Andre P. Walther Science Talk: Science controversy and communication in the misinformation age We are living in a time of incredible scientific advances that are rapidly changing our understanding of the natural world and ourselves. In many ways the futuristic societies of science fiction books and movies are now within view, but our human society is struggling to understand the mountain of new scientific information in a world full of disinformation, misinformation, lies, and fake news. Through readings and films, this course will examine the process of scientific discovery and explore different scientific controversies related to the life sciences, such as the dangers of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the risks COVID and MMR vaccines, and the inevitable future of human cloning. We will also explore how scientific knowle
Play is something we all experience growing up, but it is so much more than mere child’s play. While it can be hard to define, the power of play is undeniable. Play can help us make connections within ourselves, towards others, and between ideas. In his book on the subject, Stuart Brown states that play can “shape the brain, open the imagination, and invigorate the soul”. In this course, we will discuss, analyze, and engage in various kinds of play. We will identify the benefits of play and analyze cultural attitudes towards it. We will construct our own “play histories” and dig into the power of play in our own lives. FYS 145 – The Effect Television Shows have on the Public Perception of the Criminal Justice System and Other Life Decisions Michael Salter This course introduces the student to a historical journey through select television shows portraying different viewpoints on the criminal justice system and life decisions. Throughout the history of television, which is a major influencer of children, the viewpoints of certain shows have driven certain perspectives of the criminal justice system from negative to favorable to encouraging the viewer to become a criminal justice professional, as well as other life decisions such as their views on violence. This course will take time to view select shows through a critical eye looking at time sensitive views through multiple theoretical perspectives and multigenerational perspectives. This course will view multiple shows, read magazine art
FYS 146WOMEN IN STEM – TRAILBLAZERS, CHALLENGES, AND INNOVATIONS Beverly Magda
Throughout history, women have made groundbreaking contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), yet their achievements are often overshadowed or omitted in traditional narratives. This course uncovers the stories of trailblazing women—from Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer, to Katherine Johnson, whose calculations propelled space exploration, and beyond to less widely recognized figures like Emmy Noether, a foundational mathematician, and Anne-Marie Imafidon, founder of Stemettes. By studying their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments, students will gain a deeper appreciation of the role women have played in shaping STEM fields. In addition to exploring historical and contemporary trailblazer
FYS 148Renewable Energy for Sustainability – Yi Du
This course explores current and emerging energy systems using petrochemical industries to illustrate the connection and differences between academic research to large-scale industrial applications. It highlights leading renewable technologies, including wind, solar, biomass, biofuels, geothermal, and batteries. The course also addresses broader considerations such as climate policy, economic factors, and greenhouse gas reduction strategies, preparing students to derive their own understanding of sustainability.
FYS 149Fact, Fiction, and Fear: Understanding Conspiracy Theory – Sharon Himmanen
From the assassination of JRK to QAnon and the anti-vaccine movement, conspiracy theories are a persistent feature of the social and political landscape. But what exactly are they? Why do so many people find them compelling? And how can we distinguish a plausible alternative theory from unfounded speculation? This course introduces students to the critical thinking skills necessary to analyze, evaluate, and understand conspiratorial thinking. We will explore the historical roots of conspiracy theories, the psychological biases that make us vulnerable to them, and the logical fallacies that form their foundation. Through case studies of famous historical and contemporary examples, students will learn to deconstruct conspiratorial narrati
FYS 150The Mindful Learner: Doing, Being, Becoming, and Belonging – Mark Koch
This seminar invites students to explore who they are as learners and how they navigate the transition to college. Through learning a new skill of their choice, students examine the roles of motivation, identity, and community in shaping their growth. Using simple reflective frameworks – including Self-Determination Theory and the Kawa Model – students identify their strengths, challenges, supports, and emerging sense of belonging. By the end of the course, students gain practical strategies for learning well, understanding themselves, and becoming active members of a college knowledge community.
This 3-credit hour, 8-unit course prepares learners for success in academia and the workplace by equipping them with the language, knowledge, and skills necessary to achieve their college and career goals. Areas of importance include career exploration, college navigation, practical life skills, and personal development. Essential competencies for success in both college and career, such as effective and appropriate communication, information literacy, innovative problem-solving, and interpersonal relations will be addressed. This course emphasizes the development of skills, strategies, dispositions, and behaviors that lead students to become capable, confident, and conscientious citizens of the community. Learners will leave the course Tel-Education Course Number COL 1103
