Honors

The purpose of this course is to educate the student in the fundamentals of the lifelong financial planning process. This process incorporates six basic areas: investment planning; insurance planning; education planning; tax planning; retirement planning and estate planning.

Throughout history; societies have used puzzles for relaxation and encrypting information. More recently; it has been shown that puzzles are an excellent means to flex your brain; to build cognitive ability and maintain mental health as we age. In this course; we'll study; develop; and solve puzzles of many forms - numerical; alphabetical (words); and perhaps mechanical. In addition to focusing on the history and importance of cryptography; ciphers ranging from simple substitution to technologically advanced systems will be discussed. Students will also design their own puzzles or ciphers.

Defined as “baked earth;” terra cotta is a type of ceramic material and is used in various ways. It can be explored through disciplines like engineering; art; business; history; environmental science; and geology. This course will explore terra cotta in those areas; using Alfred and its history as the base. Note: this seminar will meet from 6:20-8:10.

Seasoned players; Dungeon Masters; and newbies can join this honorific quest for knowledge. Adventurers in this course will read not-so-ancient scrolls on topics related to the literary roots of Dungeons & Dragons; the societal impact of the game; the “backlash” from parent and religious groups; racism; sexism; the role of magic in society; role-playing and identity; morality; and why no one really likes kobolds. Join weekly quiz-quests for experience points (i.e.; grades); play a bit; and create a character sheet based on your analysis of a well-known persona for the final.

“Hello. Would you like to be friends?” This question may seem innocent coming from a new roommate; but what if it came from your computer or your car? From Hebrew golems to Ex Machina; people have been both fascinated and terrified of animating the inanimate. Are we ready for technology to become sentient? What if we prefer the virtual world to the real one? Are the fears of Bill Gates and Stephen Hawking justified; or should we look to the hopeful solutions of Larry Page? This course will explore early fascinations with AI and where the future might be headed. Readings will include contemporary science fiction readings like Mindscan and Existence. Students will be expected to lead discussions related to weekly topics and present a project on modern AI.

This course explores Italian history and culture from the Ancient World through the Present. Learn basic skills in the Italian language through classroom presentations and film; explore the rich architecture and works of art from Rome; Florence and Venice; discover Italian composers and watch an opera; uncover the secrets of delicious Italian cooking!

About the evolution of “Do It Yourself” projects; the tools and methods utilized to learn these skills; and industries to help the weekend construction warrior. We will survey methods of the past to help appreciate the tools of the present (such as Pinterest; YouTube; and HGTV); and learn how to take on a wide variety of DIY projects. The course will include weekly videos and discussions; along with in-class group activities to learn basic home improvement skills. The class will culminate with a final presentation on how this knowledge might help the students become better-informed homebuyers in the future.

Crochet is not only a tool for creating functional objects: it’s also a great way to model mathematical concepts (like hyperbolic space); improve your ability to move an object from inside your mind to the physical world; and create original works of contemporary art. In this course; students will learn the basics of crochet; and use those skills to create both their own mathematically-driven crochet patterns and improvised or “freestyle” crocheted works of art. Assignments will include working together to make a collaborative crocheted afghan; and creating an original artwork of the student’s own design--2d or 3d; freestyle or highly planned. We will delve into the theory of craft in contemporary art and look at and discuss the work of contemporary artists who use crochet in their practice. No prior experience with crochet (or art!) required.

A zine (as in magaZINE) is a popular form of do-it-yourself publication. Zinesters use drawing; poetry; narrative; and collage as a form of personal expression and community building. In this class; students will make and distribute their own original zines; discuss zine theory; and learn about zine history. Students will complete their first zine on the first day of class! Students will explore zines from a variety of communities and creators including BIPOC; queer; goth; and punk. Co-taught by a librarian and an artist; this course will offer perspectives from the art world and the world of librarianship. Note: this seminar will meet from 6:20-8:10

In our recent history we have seen a growing interest and exploration of the alter ego: from Jekyll and Hyde to Beyonce and Sasha Fierce; Superman to Second Life – we have a fascination with tapping into these other selves. This course simply asks the question – why? We will look at the photography of Cindy Sherman and Nikki S. Lee; superhero comics; and the films Fight Club; Black Swan and Sybil to investigate these fractured identities and begin to think about our own. The course culminates in a written; visual or performative project; of the student's choice; examining our own relationships with our many selves.

With recent shows like The Mandalorian; Andor; and Ahsoka; Disney has channeled the Force and churned out additions to the Star Wars saga; with franchised images on everything from toys to coffee creamer. This course will examine the seven Star Wars films critically and analytically in terms of contemporary myth and storytelling; archetypes; feminism; racism; politics; merchandising; and its general cult-like influence on American culture. Students will engage in weekly quizzes; essays; arguments; and discussions based on readings and screenings; culminating in a final project.

Why does some of the best design; music; art and film come from this tiny; northern European country? Together we examine Swedish folklore; history; politics and language in relation to some of this country’s most influential cultural producers; from Ingmar Bergman to Robyn. Through readings; discussion; lectures and videos; you discover what makes Sweden so unique culturally and; as a final project; harness some of this magic by making your own creative work in response.

We’re all going to die at some point. How much do you actually know about this whole process? This course is not for the faint of heart – we will compare death on film vs. in reality; view an autopsy; visit a cemetery (maybe a morgue); tell ghost stories; discuss what the dead can provide crime scene investigators; and host a death café. In addition to weekly readings and reflection assignments; students will write a will; plan their own funeral; and present on a death topic of choice.

“Hello. Would you like to be friends?” This may seem innocent coming from a new roommate; but what if it came from your computer? From Hebrew golems to ‘Ex Machina;’ people have been both fascinated and terrified of animating the inanimate. Are we ready for technology to become sentient? Are the fears of Bill Gates and Stephen Hawking justified; or should we look to the hopeful solutions of Larry Page? This course explores early fascination with AI and where the future might be headed. Readings include contemporary science fiction like ‘Mindscan’ and ‘Existence.’ Students are expected to lead discussions related to weekly topics and present a project on modern AI.

This class explores the science of cooking; flavor; and nutrition. Each of us will commit to record each meal (breakfast; lunch; dinner; and a snack) at least once each week for discussion in class. Discussion points include how it was prepared; how it tasted; and its nutritional and caloric content. When the meal is self-prepared; a detailed recipe will also be discussed. We will prepare at least one meal together. The chemical and physical changes that occur during cooking will be discussed. There will be one formal written assignment; a term paper on a randomly assigned international or regional food. No prior knowledge of chemistry is necessary.

This seminar will explore the recent revitalization of film photography through social media trends and pop culture uses. Students will get a hands-on approach in all aspects of shooting film. From various stocks of black & white to color film; we’ll cover a variety of methods surrounding analogue photography. Students will also get hands-on time with the dark room for developing their own film and creating their photos. Cameras alongside materials and lab usage will be provided.

This hands-on Honors seminar will examine how our food reaches us through a mix of classroom presentations; cooking; and numerous field trips to local food producers. The class will offer a delicious introduction to the local food scene in and around Allegany County as well as to a wide variety of kitchen skills. Field trips will include visits to a local vegetable grower; a small organic dairy; meat producers; and a winery. Hands-on labs will include cooking locally available foods; basic food preservation; and an optional unit on butchering. Note: this course will include an additional $20 “lab fee” for supplies; and there may be additional expenses throughout the course for optional activities.

What do obsidian and amber have in common? Both are natural glasses; just like the silica skeleton of a deep-sea sponge or tektites and fulgurites which have been melted by meteorite impact or lightning. We want to explore natural glasses from their historic significance (having been used as tools and jewelry as early as the stone age); to differences and similarities in their structure and properties to how these materials inspire modern and future materials (biomimetics). We offer hands-on analysis of natural glasses by Electron Scanning Microscopy; X-ray diffraction; or spectroscopy; you will work with our TA and no special science background is required; though welcome. In class presentations will be complemented by posters and presentations of our artifacts for the AU Glass Museum which will be opened soon.

Food offers more sustenance and displays of aesthetics; power; social and economic status; and religious precepts. How is this revealed in different cultures? Viewing; discussing films and preparing; consuming foods from different cultures lead to understanding and discoveries. Vegetarians are encouraged and will be accommodated.

Attention Muggles! Educational Decree #1836 mandates a course be offered entitled Muggles; Magic; and Mischief. Rowling’s world of witchcraft and wizardry provides a window into the human psyche and the mysteries of science. Students and their housemates will examine the human and wizarding world through weekly quizzes and one final presentation on topics related to: the universal appeal of magic; Quidditch as a sport; invisibility; travel through time and by floo; the unnatural biology of magical creatures; teenage angst; friendships; and romance; the nature of evil; and potions. (NOTE: All seven books should be read before start of term).

T'ai Chi is a way of life that has been practiced by the Chinese for many centuries. This meditative; peaceful martial art; is known and regularly practiced daily by millions of people throughout the world. This course intends to have dual emphases. Academically; students will be introduced to T'ai Chi's early history and its evolution into the contemporary era. To this end; we will explore T'ai Chi's philosophical background as it links with Chinese culture; with occasional comparisons and contrasts to Western thought. Readings will provide additional stimuli for class discussions; which will include what is meant by the energy Chi and the internal power of Jing. Students will also learn approximately half of the 64 movements of the form and the physical/mental/meditative preparation required for proper learning. Proper practice will provide the student with a balanced mind; spirit; and body!

This seminar will consist of our watching; discussing; and reading about the mafia television series The Sopranos; which brought a rich cinematic style to the “small screen” and then used the form of a serialized drama to subvert the expectations we bring as seasoned TV-watchers. We will interpret the show from 3 key perspectives: as an exploration of human psychology; as a part of the gangster genre in American cinema; and as an exploration of American materialism and its political; cultural; and spiritual effects.

Punk; Anime; Beatniks; Flower Power; Krunk; Grunge; Afrofuturism; Warcore; Preppers; Trekkies… A subculture is a group of people who differentiate themselves from the parent culture to which they are inextricably connected. In this class; we will take an investigative and appreciative look at the aesthetics; which could include visual art; fashion; body modification; music; or dance; created by subcultures around the world to communicate and strengthen group identity.

Have you ever wanted to make your own silk scarf; create a hand-woven wall hanging or enhance your clothes with embroidery? Get ready to give your fingers a workout. In this course we work with batik and other silk painting techniques; construct hand looms for weaving experiments; explore basic embroidery stitches for artworks and wearables; and look at historical and contemporary fiber artists for reference and inspiration. A student project is required. There is a fee to cover the costs of materials.

Medicinally; as a source of nutrients; in worship and religion; and as a social lubricant; alcohol (ethanol) has been used by people from the earliest times to present. It was likely a fortuitous accident tens of thousands of years ago that it came into human culture; and while abused by a minority of drinkers; most derive pleasure from its consumption. In this course; the history and science of ethanol will be examined. A combination of laboratory exercises and lectures will comprise this course; and may include but not be limited to “crafting a homebrew;” analysis of beer/wine/spirits; field trips to vineyards and invited speaker visits.

Experience walking as a method of investigating people; place; concept; and the environment. In this course we explore the history of walking; walking art works; and the rural and urban environment. There are readings/viewings/research about walking; walking assignments each week; and experiential walking projects created by the students. No specific experience is necessary. We explore walking through your chosen lens of interest - science; history; art; environmental studies; architecture; engineering etc. Walking shoes and warm clothes required.

Jack the Ripper. Lizzie Borden. The Lindbergh baby. O.J. Simpson. These and other true crime stories gripped the public imagination and permanently changed popular culture – but why? This seminar will examine some of history’s most famous crimes; questioning how gender; class; race; media depictions; and other factors affect how certain crimes impact our consciousness while others fade away.

Explore recent history of printed clothing through social media and popular culture. Get a hands on approach in all aspects of designing; printing; and wearing your own screen printed creations. We discuss color theory; practical design elements; Photoshop; and of course all the current trends shaping what is commercially sold in stores. A final critique of your ‘mini collections’ in the form of a gallery opening will showcase your talents. A lab fee is required to cover some materials.

Sex and violence: as American as apple pie; right? The films of David Lynch give us a gorgeous and disturbing view of the shiny surfaces and dark murk at the heart of American life. Stylish like Hitchcock; more daring than Tarantino; Lynch’s movies are as unique and (wonderfully) perverse as your most stunning dreams. In this course we will watch and discuss Lynch’s movies with appropriate divergences into dream interpretation theory; the world of sexual and social deviance; and Hollywood (the world of deviant dreams). We’ll watch: Eraserhead; Blue Velvet; Twin Peaks (select TV episodes and Fire Walk With Me); Mulholland Drive; and Inland Empire. A final project will consist in students writing a short scene (dialogue and description) inspired by Lynch.

The main objective of this course is to explore the topic of spirituality as part of a creative practice. We begin with an exploration of artists touching on spirituality in their practice. Readings on Mariko Mori; Yoko Ono and John Cage will launch the weekly class discussions. The direction of the course will be student led. Possible additions for the class could include meditations; an introduction to sound healing and energy work; or intuition development as a creative tool. Assignments include a journal and smaller interim visual or written projects; which will lead to a final project.

Created in 1941; Wonder Woman is the oldest and most popular female comic book hero. While well-ingrained in society today; her character and comic books in general created national backlash and tension in their early years.Using the book “The Secret History of Wonder Woman” by Jill LePore; this class explores the interwoven topics of women’s rights; pop culture; comic books; and child psychology during the mid-20th century. Discussion; guest lecturers; readings; films; and primary sources of the day additionally help illustrate and expand upon the issues.

The class explores the ability of the United States to balance job creation against damage to the environment. Scott Pruitt; new head of the Environmental Protection Agency [EPA]; stated in his first meeting with EPA employees that there should not be a contradiction between environmental protection and job creation. We explore through the media how the EPA is walking this fine line. Class projects and classroom discussions will examine the expected expanded role for fossil fuels in power generation and the resulting impact on the environment.

How are drugs discovered? How are their safeties determined? How much does it cost? Who pays for it? Why do medicines cost so much? Have you ever asked yourself any of these questions? Perhaps only rivaled by the political system; the pharmaceutical industry is one of the most critically considered industries and enterprises in society today. But is that image deserved? All these questions and more will be answered as we discuss the pharmaceutical industry and drug development. The good; the bad; and the ugly of this necessary industry are covered. No prior experience in a science class is necessary. Student work includes participation in class discussions and a term paper and presentation on a pharmaceutical compound of the student’s choosing.

This course will explore how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can negatively influence development contributing to both physical and mental illnesses. It will also explore how protective and compensatory childhood experiences (PACEs) can mitigate the detrimental effects of adverse ones. Information from a broad range of fields will be discussed; including child psychology; parenting; psychopathology; neuropsychology; health psychology; medicine; sociology; and education. Final grades will be based on class participation (60%) and four short (1-3 page) papers (40%).

Become a published writer! In this seminar; we’ll survey 180 years of haunting tales. We’ll read stories about haunted houses; haunted objects; and haunted minds. Each student will then write an original ghost story; and the seminar will culminate with the design; editing; and publication of an anthology of those stories.

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 the mutual benefits of owning a pet; and outreach to local shelters and rescues.

As the sun sets; we’ll study vampires in fiction; television; and film. We’ll explore where these stories originated; how they’ve evolved over the centuries; and why they remain popular today. What fantasies and fears have kept these stories alive into the 21st century? From Le Fanu’s 1874 Carmilla to popular television shows including True Blood and What We Do in the Shadows; we’ll explore a broad range of topics including class; race; sexuality; disease; and mythology. Each seminar member will create a final vampire-themed project that can be creative; scholarly; or both. Donating blood is highly encouraged but not required.

Some theorize that this planet has been visited by aliens for millennia and that these visitors have influenced the course of human history. In this course; we will discuss select theories and their merit and discuss the search for life in the universe. We’ll discuss allegations that some proponents of these theories have fabricated evidence; while others have willfully ignored reliable evidence contrary to their theory. These points will be covered as well as part of a discussion of scientific misconduct. Students will write a paper on an alien theory of their choosing. Finally; the class will make and edit our own episode of Ancient Aliens; focusing on “(entirely fabricated) alien theories” as they relate to Alfred University.

What’s the worst you can say or think? No matter which “bad words” come to mind; it’s more complicated than that—and more interesting. “Bad”? “Dirty”? Vulgar? Taboo? Obscene? To whom and why? All c-words; f-words; n-words; and s-words are not the same. We’ll look at social layers of offensive language and gestures; changing meanings and functions over time with examples ranging from lit to pop culture; from James Joyce’s Ulysses (in 1931; “the most notorious book in the world”) to Go the F**k to Sleep (2011 by Adam Mansback and Ricardo Cortés; read by Samuel L. Jackson on YouTube); as well as differences across cultures. Gender; sex; race; ethnicity; politics; class—they’re all here. Think of this as a course suspending judgement and discomfort freeing us to think critically about a fascinating topic. Heck yes. Students will write two reflective essays and one on a researched topic; they will also give a class presentation.

Explore the limits and uses of ChatGPT and artificial intelligence in this comprehensive course. Dive into assignments like developing prompts; creating rubrics for AI assessments; generating images and music; and engaging in conversations with ChatGPT. Gain hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of AI's capabilities and applications.

The English punk band The Clash put it this way: “Let fury have the hour/Anger can be power/If you know that you can use it.” In this seminar we will explore music that attempts to put anger to use; first looking at specific touchstone political crises for punk artists who felt compelled to create in the face of injustice; rage; and oppression. We will then trace the rise of hip-hop as informed by a strong tradition of protest culminating in hip-hop music of the Trump era. Ultimately; we will ask: what makes good political music? can political art be good art? what happens when revolutionary culture is co-opted; packaged; and sold? We will create and DJ a radio show; to be broadcast on WALF utilizing the new Media Lab; exploring the music of protest from the 1970s to today. Punk and post-punk artists may include: The Clash; Gang of Four; Minor Threat; Patti Smith; and Bikini Kill. Hip-hop artists and albums we will listen to are: Public Enemy; NWA’s Straight Outta Compton; Killer Mike; Dead Prez; Erykah Badu’s New Amerykah albums; noname’s Room 33; and Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers. Additions as suggested by the class are more than welcome!

Exploring paper; fabrics; and pigments; this course dives into different techniques of making hand and machine-bound books. A wide variety of stitches will be explored; as well as some advances in technology with the use of the digital glue binder and fabric printer. Assignments involve physical book creation/design; discussion/critique; and cumulate in a pop-up exhibition. Exploration and discussion of artists’ and rare books in the Scholes Library will be used as inspiration.

The purpose of this course is to introduce honors students to the fundamentals of personal financial management in a more creative; interactive and dynamic manner that is used in the regular class. The class includes subject area experts sharing knowledge; a stock investing competition with a $50 cash prize for the winner; and hands-on exercises. Our focus is on wealth accumulation; paying off student loans; investment planning; insurance planning; retirement planning and estate planning. At the conclusion of the course; each student develops their individual financial plan personalized for their unique circumstances.

In this course; we'll examine the influence of religion; culture; and science on monsters throughout history. We’ll look at how we respond to the presence of monsters including alpha predators or other creatures stemming from folklore or reality. Monster-related topics such as genetic engineering; artificial intelligence; epidemics; & invasive species will be analyzed. We'll also focus on the scariest monsters – HUMANS. Through group presentations; designing our own monsters; keeping a journal; and a team trivia final; we'll discuss how racism; anti-immigration; and nuclear fears are expressed through monsters’ portrayal in literature and the media. We’ll talk about the psychology of fear; hopefully partaking in Halloween traditions ranging from pumpkin carving and haunted houses & a field trip to Gettysburg.

The entire universe--all of time and all of space--where do you want to go? In this seminar we examine the 50-year history of Doctor Who. We’ll look at how the TARDIS works; both as a time machine and a space ship; the companions over the years; and how they have changed over time; and the aliens and other opponents the Doctor has faced; as well as topics such as mythological influences and gender. Weekly assignments include watching an episode or two and some reading. ; we’ll also gather to watch the 60th anniversary special in November. Students will give a final presentation on an analytical or creative topic of their choice.

We look at how bread; cake; and pastry are so different despite being made of the same basic ingredients. In the same way that chemicals are made of different combinations of elements; we can create an endless number of delicious treats with just a few things in different ratios and mixed in different ways. Class time is entirely devoted to baking different things; so you can get hands-on experience. There will be some short papers reflecting on each topic and a final project where you invent a recipe and bake it for the class.

Pop-culture shapes perceptions and experiences of the human body. This class looks at popular ways of training; portraying; and understanding the body in the 20th and early-21st centuries including: physical culture and fitness; advertising and mainstream medical science. Through a theoretical and embodied survey of these worlds; students learn about how popular Western thought on bodies and movement influences perceptions of the body—what it can do and how we experience physicality.

As artificial intelligence and automation transform industries; demand for data-savvy employees is far outstripping the available supply. This course introduces beginning students to data structures and algorithms using Python; one of the most widely used programming language in computing. It allows students to focus on problem-solving skills and algorithm development. The primary activities include lectures; discussions; and labs. By the end of the course; students will be able to use Python to manipulate data and run basic data analyses.

Black Sabbath and The Sex Pistols made Elvis and the Beatles seem quaint; Marilyn Manson and Bad Religion could outsmart Miley and Bieber six ways from Sunday. To what cultural; social; and psychological (or psychotropic) events are the “heaviest” of the musical genres responding? Must social distortion be loud? Has that disruptive vision been diluted? What should a rebellion sound like today? This course combines an exploration of harder-edged music genres with analysis of the psychological underpinnings of their artists and fans. Students will be exposed to a variety of relevant genres and will introduce new artists to the class each week via scheduled presentations. Psychological theorists; such as Jung; Freud; and Adler; will play a prominent role in discussions about the appeal of said genres; the sense of community developed by their devotees; and the alleged role of heavy music in violence and mental illness. Students will also construct a personal music profile; a multimedia work detailing their genre and artist preferences and their personal/psychological origins.

Wanted: Someone with a background in meteorology; chemistry; botany; forestry; art; and cookery who is also a nature lover with lots of patience. Must enjoy long hours of hard work in the snow; cold; and mud. Even though this is an accurate description of a maple syrup producer; don’t let it scare you! The method of producing maple syrup is one of the things in our society that has endured even in today's culture of constant change; fundamentally it’s the same process Native Americans used centuries ago. The study of maple syrup is also a way to investigate a variety of disciplines. This class allows for an introduction and discussion of them as well as cooking with maple syrup. Additionally; field trips to local producers; restaurants; and festivals helps students explore the local community.

This course delves deep into the world of cults. By examining famous cults in recent history; we begin to unravel the cultural; political and social contexts that have allowed for these fanatic new religious movements to thrive. Apocalyptic end times; civil rights; psychedelics; sexual deviancy; megalomania; symbolism; art; fashion; music; film - these are just a few topics we cover over the course of the semester through lectures; films; readings and projects. For the final project each student defines and develop their own individualized cult with a focus on a written manifesto; ritual and cult fashion.

The mob movie is one of America’s classic movie genres. These genres explore what it means to live in a materialistic; violent country that enjoys imagining a world ordered by “codes of honor.” In this course we will watch films from this genre’s very beginning up to the groundbreaking re-evaluation of the mafia in The Sopranos. We’ll consider these films from three different perspectives: as distinct versions of the mobster genre; as pointed critiques of capitalist America; and as explorations of the human psyche and its tendency to indulge in violent fantasies. No prior familiarity with any of these films is expected. Films may include: Scarface; The Godfather; GoodFellas; American Gangster and many more. Weekly screenings and class presentation projects will be the center of our discussions.

Forget your stereotypes. This course delves into contemporary Irish culture in and from Ireland. Film; food; theater; art; dance; music; sport; perhaps some history and definitely an introduction to conversational Irish language (Gaeilge)- these are just a few of the topics we cover over the course of the semester. Coursework features hands-on workshops; readings; films; class discussions; individual and group projects as well as a possible field trip.

Soft and drippy triple cream brie; or a hard and pungent gruyere? Sample a weekly cheese while learning about its origin; production; and suggested serving. Students present on their preferred cheese to the group; allowing for discussion; analysis; and investigation of taste; texture; and smell. The semester culminates in the class’s production of a digitally bound; laser-cut; Swiss cheese triangular book - graphing; scoring; and mapping the multitude of sampled cheeses. Purchase of ONE cheese required per student to share and a $15 lab fee to cover accompanying snacks; beverages; and book production.

Take a look at some of the most devastating weather events; both past and present; and discuss observable trends; debate major policies; issues; and potential climate change factors; and ponder the ultimate question: Can we weather the weather of the future? This course will include weekly readings which will lead into weekly videos and discussions; and students will be asked to prepare one final presentation summarizing their climate views; whether or not their views have changed throughout the course; and how they believe the planet should proceed going forward.

This course will look at psychedelic culture in the US from the 1950s to present day. Through firsthand accounts; documentary footage; podcasts; films; art and music; we will examine our complicated history with psychedelics and how attitudes towards them have been shifting with new research into their therapeutic potential. Material covered will include: Albert Hoffman + LSD; The Harvard Psychedelic Project; Acid Tests; Terence McKenna; The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies; Michael Pollan’s How to Change Your Mind; and much more. Students will be asked to give a presentation on a relevant topic and create a final project.

After an introduction on how research is done; we analyze and debate contemporary and historical cases of scientific/research fraud and priority disputes. In addition; cases of controversial research topics including weapons research; genetic modifications; and others are considered. Through these lenses; you develop the skills to identify questionable and fraudulent research practices such as falsification; fabrication; and plagiarism and also hone the decision-making skills necessary to take an informed stance on controversial topics and how they can be explored while minimizing risks. You will author one paper on a fraudulent research case and lead one class discussion on a controversial case. If time permits; we will also hold a mock trial of a priority dispute.

Is your Alfred life an unending blur of gray slush and tedious blue screen headaches? Are you dressed slovenly in untailored rags? CAMP! is your cure. Our goal is; as define by Mark Booth; “to present oneself as being committed to the marginal with a commitment greater than the marginal merits.” We will practice fully committed self-presentation. In CAMP!; we want to go full out and explore the expressions and the experiences of an “aesthetic of artifice;” in fashion; films; life; music; novels; and theater internationally. As seen at the Met’s Costume Institute and Gala 2019; camp is a social practice of ostentation and theatricality that celebrates exaggerated performance. We will immerse ourselves in thirteen unique examples of camp. The Alfred Honors students will design a project that embraces camp’s “love of the unnatural” as explained by Susan Sontag. Can you take CAMP! far enough?

With the November 2020 elections looming; our challenge will be to analyze and learn about issues facing the country through the lens of editorial cartoons. We'll host a presidential debate through contrasting cartoons and memes; we'll mount cartoon face-offs on controversial issues such as immigration; climate change; and gun control; and we'll draw our own editorial cartoons (no artistic ability required!). We'll explore current events through regular small group cartoon-based quizzes; and student teams will produce poster presentations on the major historical event of their choice.

What was the logistical genius of Napoleon Bonaparte? How much total force would one warrior have experienced being a part of a shield wall? This course; co-taught by a professor of mathematics and a former infantry platoon leader in the United States Army; will cover vignettes in military history when the numbers behind what happened can give us a better understanding of the situation overall. The course will be lecture and discussion-based with students submitting reflections throughout the course and the final project being a presentation made by the students on a connection between mathematics and an aspect of warfare.

This course will explore the recent history of printed matter through social media and popular culture. Students will get a hands-on approach in all aspects of designing; stenciling; printing and reproduction. From printing on clothes to objects; we’ll cover a variety of methods around print and marking. We’ll discuss color theory; practical design elements; Photoshop and all the current trends shaping modern prints and impressions. A final critique of your printed matter in the form of a site-specific project that will showcase your vision and talents. Materials and lab usage will be provided. Students of all backgrounds and levels of experience are welcome.

Do you want a bright financial future? 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 well-being; and how people routinely make financial decisions that are not in their best interests.

From ancient soldiers of Sparta and samurai of Japan; to marathon runners and triathletes; to today’s on-screen superheroes; explore the evolution of training methodology among athletes of varying concentrations throughout history; including the physical regimens; nutritional guidelines; and mental approaches; designed to achieve maximum success.

Come discover how engagement with the natural world affects how people think; their mental and physical health; and their overall well-being! We’ll read and discuss research and theory on what is happening in the brain and body while a person is interacting with nature; and we’ll explore and investigate the natural world around us to connect the course material to our lived experience here in Alfred. Students will seek out natural elements to bring to class for appreciation and evaluation; and we’ll all be finding ways to interact with nature while reflecting on our experiences. There will be reading and reflective writing; discussion; and companionship in adventure; all accessible to various levels of skill and familiarity with the great outdoors.

In this class; we will see how to use board games as a pedagogical tool. Each class will be centered about a subject (history; economics; natural sciences; social justice; morality and ethics; among others). The students will play a game in class whose theme matches the corresponding subject. They will be asked to fill a short questionnaire about the board game that they played and its theme. As a final project; students will choose a topic and a board game; then develop supporting materials (such as brochures; reference cards; images; audio; questionnaires; etc.) that could be used in a classroom setting to teach the chosen topic. NOTE: This seminar will meet 6:20-8:10.

This course will examine and evaluate the psychological theories; phenomena; and explanations for paranormal experiences. These experiences include but are not limited to ghosts; alien abductions; telepathy and telekinesis; near-death experiences; dreams; communicating with the dead; out of body experiences; precognition; and demons. We will explore the psychological research relating to paranormal phenomena; with an emphasis on psychological explanations for such phenomena and examining the real-world impact of this research. Assignments will include weekly readings; participation in weekly discussions; 1-2 short reflection papers; and one final presentation on a paranormal phenomena of the student’s choice.

Sleep is not only an important biological process; but also a clear channel to the subconscious; a time when our deepest fears and desires rise to the surface in the form of dreams. In this course; students will examine the science behind sleep; how humans have understood or explained this once-perplexing phenomenon historically through the arts and in literature; how dreams have appeared at pivotal moments in religious and cultural movements; and more.

This class will address the science of thriving; addressing questions such as what it means to be “happy” and how we can cultivate well-being as individuals; in organizations; and in communities. We will discuss how positive psychology can be applied in various domains like education; healthcare; work; and personal relationships.

Who doesn’t want an opportunity to travel through time? See what dinosaurs were really like; witness your favorite historical event in living color; find extra time to write your paper that you didn’t finish on time yesterday. Each week we’ll spend class time split between discussing the assigned short story/video and the science of time travel

Engineering Origami merges the ancient Japanese art of origami with mechanical engineering principles. Origami (折り紙; ori meaning folding and kami meaning paper) transforms flat sheets of paper into intricate 3D shapes; and its principles extend beyond art to provide innovative engineering solutions. This course introduces students to the structural and functional potential of folded paper; showing how origami can address engineering challenges in fields like aerospace; materials science; robotics; and architecture. Students will explore key principles like fold geometry; material efficiency; and deployable systems; while learning to apply mechanical concepts such as stress analysis and material properties to create functional origami structures. Through hands-on learning; students will fold traditional designs and study real-world applications of origami; including shape-shifting systems; metamaterials; and robotics. Weekly assignments and videos will stimulate in-class discussions; and the course will include a final project that requires students to design and present their own origami-inspired engineering solution.

From DC to the MCU; superheroes and supervillains have permeated our pop culture. In this class we’ll explore whether mutations; alien powers; trauma; or badly conducted science can account for the range of abilities seen in comics and on the big screen. Students will engage in weekly missions to scour mainstream and fringe sources for evidence to discuss and “mythbust” these costumed creations. For a final project; students will design their own superhero or analyze someone from the multiverse.

Clickbait headlines. Deepfakes. Misinformation spreading faster than the truth. In today’s digital world; separating fact from fiction has never been more difficult—or more important. This seminar will explore how journalism; social media; and ethics collide in the age of viral news. How do we decide what to believe? Who controls the narrative? And what happens when misinformation takes on a life of its own? Through interactive discussions; case studies; and media experiments; students will uncover the power of storytelling and the dangers of digital deception. The course will include weekly discussion reflections; a presentation on a media-related controversy; and a final creative project exploring the impact of misinformation in modern society.

This seminar will explore print through the lens of commercial use and application. Social media trends and pop culture will enforce the practice as students explore various printing inks. Such inks include glow-in-the-dark; puff additive; fluorescent; and metallics; among others. Students will get a hands-on approach in all aspects of designing; stenciling; printing and reproduction. From printing on clothes to objects; we’ll cover a variety of methods around Screen Print. We discuss color theory; practical design elements; Photoshop and all the current trends shaping modern Screen Printing. Materials and lab usage will be provided.

This course explores the role of music in social; emotional; political; and daily life. Discover drum cultures that have rhythms for every aspect of life and death. Learn how to use music to shut off that nagging; self-critical voice in your head. Religion; pop culture; shopping malls; movie soundtracks…explore the science and magic of music. Music has power like nothing else. We laugh; live; love; die to music. It has the power to hurt; and the power to heal. Music can bring us together or tear us apart. Music helps us relax and gets us fired up. Music affects nearly every part of the human brain; and it can even kill cancer. Assignments in this class will include short weekly readings; in class discussions; and a semester long project focused on personal and/or community-based music.