Culture can be a nearly invisible force in our daily lives, but it plays a crucial role in understanding mind/body wholeness and therefore improving well-being. In this course, students will develop a rich understanding of cultural dimensions and cultural differences by applying Leininger’s Theory of Culture Care during their immersion in the Greek culture. Students will learn from local experts about health, well-being, cultural anthropology, and political and social issues. We risk misunderstanding the influence of culture if we examine it only from a distance, so students will gain a balanced perspective through their immersion into the Greek culture.
This course examines diversity initiatives aimed at promoting cultural competency and social justice advocacy. Students will be exposed to viewpoints and positions that serve to enhance cognitive complexity, self-efficacy and cultural knowledge and understanding. Learning is applied beyond the classroom in community settings, promoting an understanding of community engagement to promote change and prepare leaders for living in and making a positive difference for a justice-centered global community. Special emphasis is placed on equity in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines as a means to create inclusive, culturally responsive, equitable learning environments for every student.
Occasionally
This course is a required course for two proposed new interdisciplinary majors, Composite science major and Composite mathematics and science major, designed primarily, although not exclusively, for students interested in becoming a secondary education teacher in a rural or remote setting. Specifically, the course is designed to broaden and enhance teacher preparation in science and math relatative to issues of diversity and equity in STEM education. The course will carry a GENL prefix and will not impact departmental offerings other than provide a relevant non-major elective for science and math departments.
This course serves as a performing arts-based introduction to the history and culture of Central and Eastern Europe, with particular attention given to developments made in the lands that once formed the sprawling multi-ethnic empire of Austria-Hungary.
Occasional Interims, abroad
This study course travels Northern India. Students study the Ramayana and the Bhavagad Gita as foundation texts. Students are introduced to Indian music, performing artists, and the tradition of yoga. Students study Hinduism on the banks of the Ganges and Buddhism under the branches of the Bodhi Tree. The course begins in Delhi, India’s capital city, and continues to Agra, Bodhgaya, Varanasi, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Haridwar. At each site students explore literature, history, culture, and music that express the truths of the religious traditions.
Occasional Interims, abroad
Special Topics in General Studies.