College Writing

Taught by Joann Quiñones - Associate Professor of English

Developing college essay writing skills is much more engaging if you do so while talking about contemporary issues. By using film, fiction, advertisements, newspapers, music and T.V., you explore how popular culture informs the way we think about others, our communities and our selves. Topics include race and gender in the media, environmental impacts of our current fast food system, women in advertising, and more. This course requires daily writing, and is beneficial to confident writers and to those seeking extra practice and support. Learn the basics of researching, arguing, and supporting an idea - indeed, the basics of college writing.

Diversity: I Can Make a Difference

Taught by Shenita Piper - Associate Dean of Admissions; Director of Multicultural Recruitment

You hear about diversity all the time, but what is it, really? In this course you engage in critical thought and discussion about social justice, respect for persons, race, ethnicity, cultural heritage, nationality, socioeconomic status, family structure, age, gender, sexual orientation, and religious and spiritual beliefs. Experimental exercises and discussion of readings, movies, and case studies help you understand the positive role cultural and physical diversity can have in your life. You then will be equipped to make a difference!

Economics of Personal Finances

Taught by Rajaram Krishnan - Professor of Economics

Most teenagers think that they are too young to care about issues of long-term personal finance. That can be a costly premise. So, here is your opportunity to get a head start! In this course you deal with the economics of wealth accumulation, home ownership, and retirement planning. The course explains the theoretical foundations of personal finance and provides you with practical strategies. By the end of the course you should be well prepared to embark on your own long-range financial planning.

Environmental Chemistry

Taught by Kalani Seu - Assistant Professor of Chemistry - and Mark Stocksdale - Professor of Chemistry

Chemistry is a dynamic science, constantly changing as discoveries are made. But not all discoveries have had positive benefits for our world. This course focuses on the importance of the connection between fundamental chemical principles and the environment. Topics such as stoichiometry (study of the amount of substances involved in reactions), chemical equations, acid-base chemistry, and spectroscopy are examined through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, assignments and laboratory experiments.

Equine Studies – Yes, Horses!

Taught by Maggie Jackson - Senior Assistant Director of Admissions and Faculty Advisor for the Coop

Horses are beautiful creatures, and they require a lot of care. This course focuses on all issues related to the care and management of horses and equine related activities. By focusing on biological and veterinary concerns, you learn to address emergency medical incidents, treat illnesses and injuries common to horses, and be better prepared for emergencies. An in-depth study of natural horsemanship gives you the opportunity to better understand your role in your relationship with horses. You also have the opportunity to gain an in depth understanding of the intricacies of stable management through practical experience at the Earlham College Stables during Explore-A-College. Through theoretical study and experiential practice of stable management, you become familiar with best practices for pasture management, herd dynamic considerations, and facility maintenance. No prior experience is necessary.

Exploring Human Behavior

Taught by Nelson Bingham - Provost and Professor of Psychology

Have you ever wondered why people act as they do? Psychologists offer four kinds of answers to this question: people influence each other through social processes; the physical environment affects us psychologically; one’s own personality has important effects on behavior; and, at the physiological level, the brain and nervous system determine our actions. In this course, you examine all four explanations through lectures, readings, films, hands-on activities, and discussion. Classical studies and contemporary research introduce you to the theories and methods of the field of psychology. A library project fosters skills in using psychological literature. See syllabus

French

Taught by Karim Sagna - Associate Professor of French

Our journey in learning French will take us to France and other French speaking countries to explore and appreciate the diversity of francophone cultures. This course focuses on improving your skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing in French as well as developing your critical thinking skills, learning strategies, and creativity. Discussions, group activities and individual projects allow you to build communicative competence. You will also use library, film, and online resources to further your study.

Insects!

Taught by Chris Smith - Assistant Professor of Biology and Environmental Science

Often thought of as pesky, insects are actually the most successful animal on Earth! Through field work, labs and lecture, you learn how to identify major groups of insects, and learn about their natural history, behavior, ecology, and evolution. You learn to identify common insects not only by their appearance, but also by where they are found and their behaviors. At the end of the course, you will have an insect collection that can serve as a reference for many years.

Japanese

Taught by Yausmi Kuriya - Professor of Japanese

Learning a language very different from yours, such as Japanese, is challenging and exciting. You learn Japanese language and culture through interactive activities, and through group and individual projects with the help of reading and writing exercises. By examining films, animation, video programs and other resources, you find out about the lives of Japanese young people, their interests, their plans for the future, and ideas and attitudes they have in common with American young people. Plus, you experience dining at a fine Japanese restaurant. No previous study required.

Philosophy & Film: Existentialism and the Western

Taught by Kevin Miles - Associate Professor of Philosophy

Dede Gardner, one of the producers of the film The Assassination of Jesse James, makes the observation that "We're besieged by technology, iPhone this and robot that. We're figuring out how to exist without even talking to one another. Well, you can't do that in [westerns]. It's all about person-to-person confrontation" (Richard Corliss, “Too Tough to Die,” Time 20 September 2007). In this course you explore Gardner’s thesis that the western is “all about person-to-person confrontation” by viewing both classic and contemporary westerns, as well as examining western motifs in films like The Matrix, paying particular attention to how emerging technologies influence and shape the storyline. You also perform readings in existential philosophy highlighting how the western expresses a tension between freedom and developing technology in an effort to say something about how it is to be a human being.

Photography: Introduction to Black and White Photography

Taught by Walt Bistline - Assistant Professor of Art

Explore the creative use of photography as a means of personal expression. You learn how to use your camera’s controls to achieve the technical and creative results you want. You shoot and develop your own black and white film, and print your own enlargements in the college’s darkrooms. You are introduced to the fundamentals of art criticism as you talk about your photographs with the class and join in lively group discussions of your classmates’ work. You also review the history of photography through a presentation of works by famous photographers. Film, photo paper, and all necessary chemicals are provided for you. Please bring your own camera, one that allows you to manually change the shutter speed and aperture. (No digital cameras). See syllabus.