Lectures, Courses and Workshops

The Emeritus College at Arizona State University consisting of more than 500 retired professors with emeritus standing from ASU and other universities, provides its members with opportunities to lecture and teach beyond campus boundaries. Civic, service, religious and other community organizations, who wish to schedule specific lectures, workshops or short courses, are invited to make their selections from the Guide to Lectures and Courses or utilize the search tool below.

Organizations wishing to offer lectures, workshops or short courses on topics other than those found in this Guide may also contact the college and an attempt will be made to provide an expert speaker or instructor. Please schedule far enough in advance to allow for adequate planning by all.

  • Lectures are usually 50 to 90 minutes, depending on the requirements of the host organization.
  • Courses are typically at the university “general studies” level, vary from three to 10 lectures of one or two hours each and do not carry college credit.
  • Workshops range from one hour to several hours.

Compensation to speakers depends upon the nature of the host organization. Single lectures are presented pro bono to service and other non-profit groups, although honoraria are appreciated. Courses usually will require a modest stipend. Remuneration details as well as audio-visual and other special requirements should be negotiated with the speaker.

Once you make your selections, use the contact information provided to contact the faculty member directly or the college at 480-965-0002 or emerituscollege@asu.edu to book your lecture, course or workshop.

2024–2025 guide

Cover for EC guide to lectures and courses pdf file

Search tool for the Guide

Title Delivery Type Subject Speaker
(Random) Acts of Kindness

Research shows how even small acts of kindness can positively affect both those who perform those acts and those who receive them. Research also indicates that we underestimate the impact that kindness can have. In this workshop, we will discuss acts of kindness that we have witnessed and participated in. We will consider why and how we and our friends and family engage in acts of kindness and what the experience has been like. We will each write about one especially memorable act of kindness.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics
100 Years of Quantum Physics (8 lecture course)

This course is designed for adults who, while not necessarily trained in the sciences, have sincere curiosity about the universe in which we live and the physical laws which govern it. It is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced.

Part I of the course surveys the origins, primary concepts and principle technological advancements of quantum physics. Part II will review the advancements and technological applications of quantum physics through the latter half Twentieth Century and going into the Twenty-first.

This course will not cover recent experimental and theoretical developments, e.g., quantum computing and quantum state telekinesis, as these topics are addressed in the course, Spooky Physics, offered periodically by the instructor.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course Science
1001 Arabian Nights or 1001 Musical Strings

10,000 years of string instruments from one-string fiddles and African harps to Mesopotamian and oriental lutes to the marvelous violin family.

This lecture is part of a series of four one–hour lectures describing the history of music instruments from traditional and folk cultures to the art cultures of the East, mid–East, Europe and the “new world.”

Each lecture is accompanied by photographs and sound bites of a series of instruments.

See the course listed as "History and Evolution of Music Instruments" for the other courses in the series. You may choose one lecture or the complete series of four one-hour lectures.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information:
jhaefer@asu.edu
480-203-3110
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
A Letter to An Ancestor

If we’ve spent any time thinking about any of our ancestors, we probably have lots of thoughts that we wish we could share with them.  In this workshop, we will talk about some of those thoughts. Each of us will also draft a letter to an ancestor, and we will discuss them.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
A Practical Introduction to General Relativity (4 lecture course)

This course is designed for adults who, while not necessarily trained in the sciences, have sincere curiosity about Einstein’s famous theory of gravity and about the universe in which we live and how, according to current scientific understanding, it came to be. It is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced.

This is not a course in “practical” applications of General Relativity, although there are some, such as GPS systems, that will be discussed, but rather an approach that is practical in the sense of not requiring advanced mathematics or physics.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course Science
A Practical Joke (Where No One Got Hurt)

Throughout life, most of us have participated in practical jokes—as instigators, observers, and/or targets. In this workshop we will discuss practical jokes that we and our friends and family have participated in. We will also write about our favorite practical jokes.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics
Adventures in Parenting

Parenting has been around as long as there have been species of animals, including humans. As individual humans, we have witnessed and experienced parenting moments all of our lives. We have seen our parents or guardians engage in parenting. We have also heard stories about how our grandparents engaged in parenting with their children, and we have seen how they parent their adult children. In person or on television, we have also seen how birds, land animals, and sea creatures parent their offspring. And for those of us with children and grandchildren, we have thousands of parenting moments. In this workshop, we will discuss and write about the parenting that we have witnessed and experienced.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Psychology
An Event in the World That Changed My Family’s Story

Events in the world can affect people many people in many ways. For example, the Irish potato famine drove many people to leave Ireland in the late 1840s. Perhaps, though, a smaller event had a major impact on our family—e.g., a fire that caused the family to quit farming. In this workshop each of us will write about some large or small event that changed the course for our family.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
An Intimate Evening at Stonehenge

An introduction is given of the setting and origins of Stonehenge, including up-to-date archaeological knowledge of its role in Neolithic society. Up close photos taken by the lecturer of the stones forming Stonehenge are also shown along with a description of their nature and origins.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Science
Anniversary Appraisal of the Crimean Annexation

Course views the social, economic and government projects occurring in Crimea since the Russian annexation in 2014 with emphasis on the activities simultaneously taking place during the course.  The program compares current daily life of the Crimean people with the realities of daily Crimean life before 2014. Course offers the details of Russian subsidizations and projects including transportation, education, and the development and goals of its Black Sea Fleet.

Course is best offered during the week of March 11-18 in order to match the official annexation date of March 18 as close as possible.

Available as an online or in-person course of two lectures of two hours each or it can be adjusted for one session of two hours.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  History, International
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course History, International
Aquaponics as a Source of Food and Nutrition for Low-Income Families

Aquaponics is the term given to the integration of two technologies: aquaculture (growing fish for human consumption) and hydroponics (cultivation of plants in a nutrient-rich solution). In this system, the waste produced by the fish in transformed, by naturally occurring bacteria, into nitrites and nitrates, which provides nutrition for the plants. Aquaponics is typically comprised of tanks and pumps, and is being used indoors and outdoors, in residential and commercial settings, to produce food year-around.

This presentation describes a simplified, home-based aquaponics system that being developed, consisting of a small pond (8’ long x 4’ wide x 2’ deep,) partitioned in two sections: one for the vegetables; the other one for the fish. The owner and user of this home-based system will then move water from one side of the pond to the other, using a bucket or a paddle.

We hope that this system will be a source of highly nutritious food, and also an effective instrument for bringing all the members of a family on a common endeavor.  Present focus is low-income families in the US and Mexico.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-277-1531| macia@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Economics, Science, Social studies
Aristotle, Cicero and Adam Smith

The legacy of Greco-Roman Humanism flowed from 4th Century B.C. Athens into the 18th Century A.D. Political Economy of Adam Smith.  Aristotle was a citizen of the 4th Century B.C. Athenian polis, a city-state of 400,000 people, of which 200,000 were citizens, and which was an agrarian economy. In his book THE POLITICS Aristotle defined humankind as politician animals with an inherent drive for associationism, or to found civil societies. Aristotle drew a distinction between Democracies and Republics and critiques Democracies because of the dangers of mass rule and favored a Republic. He also believed in distributive justice, a theory that the products of a society should be distributed equitably among all members of the polis. Cicero lived in the Roman Republic, an agrarian economy, and continued the ethical doctrines of the Athenian polis. Cicero drew a distinction between patricians and plebians, or he recognized the existence of class warfare. He defended the Gracchi Brothers who advocated that newly conquered lands of the Roman Republic be distributed among the poor in order to overcome poverty and social inequality. Like Aristotle, Cicero fused ethical philosophy with political economy. Adam Smith published THE WEALTH OF NATIONS in 1776. He lived at the time of the commercial revolution, the development of small-scale trade but not the INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION. He was one of the first to speak of laissez-faire, or free trade, but that meant free enterprise for the small entrepreneur. Careful reading of THE WEALTH OF NATIONS reveals that Smith was aware of the deprivations of poverty and he advocated free education for the poor so they could advance up the social ladder, for higher taxes on the rich and the absence of taxes on the poor in order to lower the prices of necessities, for social welfare for the poor and he was an ardent opponent to monopolies. Ethics still lived in Adam Smith’s 18th Century. Political Economy.  But 19th and 20th Century Political Economy distorted Smith when it advanced the ideas of limitless acquisition and capitalist monopolies.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, Ethics, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Economics, Ethics, History, Social studies
Arizona’s Indian Music

With more than 20 different Indigenous cultures living in Arizona there is a vast range of different musical sounds varying from multiple vocal timbres and tensions to instrumental practices all performed within a variety of musical styles from traditional to modern, pop, opera, country, and rap. Examples of each will be heard and discussed within this one-hour lecture.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480 203-3110| r.haefer@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Medical Education Today—Pros and Cons

Undoubtedly AI will more and more become integrated into medical education and clinical and research medicine.  However, there are many pros and cons, as well as details to be refined.  In this talk we will highlight the many controversies around AI, including educational, ethical, and legal issues.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Health, Science, Wellness
Backroads of Iberia: Portugal and Spain 2019

In May of 2019 we spent nearly three weeks touring the back roads of Portugal and Spain.  We stayed in Portuguese Pousadas and Spanish Paradores.  This travelogue will be a discussion with pictures of this trip.  Questions from participants are welcomed and encouraged. 

Available as an online presentation anywhere or in-person in the San Diego area

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-399-7704 | gary@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Travelogue
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Travelogue
Brain Evolution and Becoming Human

This session considers brain development over two million years of primate evolution and how this big-brain has given humans an interesting set of skills that appears to be unique among animals. This session also reviews the most recent science that examines ancient DNA that offers interesting theories on how we evolved, like new theories in anthology will examine the role of language and tools in brain development. 

  • Archaic humans and recent cousins
  • Hybrids – Lovers or Fighters?
  • Homo-Sapiens

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Car Ratings and What They Mean (Workshop #1)

Buying a car can be both an exciting and stressful process. Balancing our budget, desires and practicality can sometime overwhelm us. In this 2-part workshop, we bring you peace of mind in helping you to sort through the safety ratings and new safety features of a car.

Car Ratings and What They Mean (Workshop #1)

In the first workshop, we explain why the federal government’s “Star Safety Rating” and Insurance Institute’s “Top Safety Picks” systems were originally developed. With this understanding, you will be better prepared to interpret these ratings in your car-buying decisions. 

What attendees can expect to know at the end of both workshops:

  1. A new perspective on the traditional safety rating systems and how to interpret their ratings.
  2. A better understanding of the driver-assist technologies and how to assess their value when buying a car.
  3. A different way of looking at the future of car ownership.

(Note: Each workshop will be ‘stand-alone’ but are better taken together.)

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: hubele@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, Science, Social studies
Childhood Toys

Each of us may have vivid or vague memories about the toys that occupied our play time as children. Some of those toys may have been purchased; some may have been lovingly crafted by family members; some have been ordinary objects that we spontaneously converted to toys—e.g., a stick or a rock. And some of us have had more expensive toys in adulthood. In this workshop, we will talk and write about some of the toys that each of us has had, reflecting on the role of toys in our lives and the lives of other family members.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Clothing Choices and Family Memories

Members of our families have made clothing choices (and some have even made clothing). Sometimes those choices reflect certain commitments to style and fashion. Sometimes those choices reflect practical realities. For example, some of us wore hand-me-down clothes as children, and some still follow the practice of wearing clothes the others have worn—clothes that we buy at thrift stores. Family members’ clothing can reflect something in their personalities and their values. Clothing may also have made an impression on you or be connected with especially vivid memories. In this workshop, we will talk and write about some clothing choices in our families.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Collecting Stories about Recipes: Making a Family Recipe Story Book

Family cooks and bakers have favorite recipes. Some of them may be recent additions to the collection; some of them may have been passed down for generations. Some of them may be written down, but some may exist only in the chef’s brain. While these recipes yield delicious food that family members enjoy, they also are surrounded by stories about family—e.g., a grandparent preparing a dish that we craved as children, a parent wearing a special apron while cooking or baking, friends and family gathered around the dining room table to enjoy the food and one another’s company. And if we are fortunate, there are photos related to these recipes—e.g., a photo of the food item itself, a photo of the family sharing the meal, a photo of our grandparents’ old wood- burning kitchen stove, or a photo of a family member preparing the dish, or a photo of a grandparent. In this workshop, we are going to share our memories about recipes. We will also design a family recipe book that includes recipes, stories, photos.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
Connecting Learning Theory, Brain Biology and Intelligence

This session examines learning theories through a biological lens.   We will discuss intelligences (humans and non-humans) and consider how teaching-instructional approaches improve learning outcomes for children and adults.

  • Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism
  • Biological requirements for learning
  • Instructional approaches and learning
  • Intelligence across the animal kingdom

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Conserving or Restoring Vintage Hand Tools

Have you inherited rusty, unusable hand tools that your parents or grandparents used in their workshops? Would you like to bring them back to life so that you can display and/or use them? In this session, Duane Roen will show you hand tools, some dating back to the 1800s, that he has conserved or restored. He will describe the methods that he has used to remove rust (while preserving the patina as much as possible) and to make the tools functional again. He will discuss the history and uses of some of the tools. Feel free to bring to the session a hand tool that needs conservation or restoration; Duane will offer suggestions how to make the tool whole again. Duane has been using hand tools for seven decades as a hobbyist to do carpentry, woodworking, and some mechanical work. He has been conserving and restoring hand tools for more than a decade.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Design, Education, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Design, Education, History, Social studies
Conserving or Restoring Vintage Hand Tools:

Have you inherited rusty, unusable hand tools that your parents or grandparents used in their workshops? Would you like to bring them back to life so that you can display and/or use them? In this session, Duane Roen will show you hand tools, some dating back to the 1800s, that he has conserved or restored. He will describe the methods that he has used to remove rust (while preserving the patina as much as possible) and to make the tools functional again. He will discuss the history and uses of some of the tools. Feel free to bring to the session a hand tool that needs conservation or restoration; Duane will offer suggestions how to make the tool whole again. Duane has been using hand tools for seven decades as a hobbyist to do carpentry, woodworking, and some mechanical work. He has been conserving and restoring hand tools for more than a decade.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Design, Education, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Cultural, Design, Education, History, Social studies
Crimea: Its Contentious Reality and Identity

Program discusses the characteristics of the multiple international influences and conflicts that have contributed to Crimean identity.  This course begins with discussions of the cultures influencing Crimea up to Catherine II’s annexation in 1783 with emphasis on the eras of Roman and Greek dominations and on the development of Crimean Tatars.  The course then outlines the events leading up to the development of modern Crimea including the events of the Crimean War (1853-1856) and the Soviet period (1921-1991). The course concludes with a discussion of the political decisions, conflicts and intrigues that brought the annexation of Crimea into the Russian Republic removing it from Ukraine on March 18, 2014.   

Available as an online or in-person 3-hour lecture or four two-hour lectures as a mini-course.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  History, International
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course History, International
Criminology…Just for the Fun of It! (You solve the WHO DUN-ITs!)

OK, if you're feeling like a junior Sherlock Holmes, it’s time for some real CSI. Your professor has spent a lifetime in the world of crime (he’s been on both sides of the law!). With a PhD specializing in Advanced White-Collar Crime, your professor, Dr. Danny, has been involved with everyone from Interpol to ("Excuse me, Sir, but no such agency exists!"). He's been involved with US Postal Inspectors in some very front-page crimes. and additionally, his friendships with law enforcement migrated him into homicide cases, as well as “profiling" (crime prevention) for the Frat Boys International. But this is YOUR TIME TO SHINE, young Jedis! The professor will present the crime, and you have to 1) solve it and 2) get inside the criminal’s mind as to “why" (the criminal pathology). Then, we split the room in half, and each side is designated as either the “prosecution” or the “defense." Finally, we’ll go into the courtroom. Yikes!

NOTE: some of the content in this course may be disturbing.

Delivery method: In-person

Email: dckneer@asu.edu
Phone: (619) 878-4991
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Law, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Cultural, Ethics, Law, Social studies
Cuba Revealed: Our Trip to Cuba in 2016

In March of 2016 we spent nearly two weeks touring Cuba.  This travelogue will be a discussion with pictures of this trip.  Never have we been to a place so close yet so foreign.  Cuba is a step back in time while simultaneously wanting to move forward.   Questions from participants are welcomed and encouraged. 

Available as an online presentation anywhere or in-person in the San Diego area

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-399-7704 | gary@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Economics, History, International, Politics, Social studies, Travelogue
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, Economics, History, International, Politics, Social studies, Travelogue
Curiosity in Our Lives

Curiosity is an important part of being human. It drives us to learn what we need to know in life and what we want to know. It shapes who we are as individuals. It helps us see other perspectives. It helps to build relationships with other people. It makes us more interesting. It is a powerful tool. In this workshop we will discuss our experiences with curiosity, and our discussion will probably make us more curious about the roles of curiosity in our lives.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Psychology
Dark Money in Arizona: The Right to Know, Free Speech and Playing Whack-a-Mole

Dark money, this relatively new campaign-finance phenomenon of hidden contributions, is seen by some to reflect a genuine threat to democracy. Its defenders, on the other hand, argue that this approach to funding political campaigns is merely an extension of Americans’ basic right to free speech.  This presentation focuses on the development of the dark money issue and its manifestation in Arizona politics, what should or could be done about it, and how it relates to some broader problems regarding campaign finance.  

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: David.Berman@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Politics, Social studies
Demise of the Performing Arts

A string quartet required four players hundreds of years ago, and it still requires four players. The basic problem for high-quality performing arts is that technological advances in the ‘productive’ sector of the economy (e.g., auto manufacturing) have limited or even no relevance in increasing ‘productivity’ in the performing arts. Consequently, because the real costs of producing performing arts have increased substantially (as earnings opportunities in the productive sector mean performing artists earn more), high-quality performing arts are difficult to maintain without pricing out most persons or requiring substantial donations or government support. For a few of the highest-quality endeavors, however, technology can help.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: pburgess123@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Economics, Music, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, Economics, Music, Science, Social studies
Driver Assist Technologies (Workshop #2)

Buying a car can be both an exciting and stressful process. Balancing our budget, desires and practicality can sometime overwhelm us. In this 2-part workshop, we bring you peace of mind in helping you to sort through the safety ratings and new safety features of a car.

Driver Assist Technologies (Workshop #2)

In the second workshop, we describe the capability of the current driver-assist technologies, the nomenclature and their estimated value in the car-buying decision. The regulation and limitation of these systems will give you insights. The workshop will end with a view of the future of cars and ownership.

What attendees can expect to know at the end of the workshops:

  1. A new perspective on the traditional safety rating systems and how to interpret their ratings.
  2. A better understanding of the driver-assist technologies and how to assess their value when buying a car.
  3. A different way of looking at the future of car ownership.

(Note: Each workshop will be ‘stand-alone’ but are better taken together.)

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: hubele@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, Economics, Science, Social studies
Early Catholic Church’s Long Toll Road to Salvation

The Catholic Church rose to fabulous wealth and power from its humble roots in the first century. It did this by creating a long toll road to salvation; missionaries and saints played key roles in the process. Missionaries converted millions to the Catholic faith. Departed saints were treated as ‘living’ persons, and they ‘performed’ many jobs for the church (for which they expected handsome compensation). Purgatory and death were the final stops on the toll road, and they provided huge wealth for the church.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: pburgess123@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, History, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Economics, History, Politics, Social studies
Echoes of Eden

Composers, painters, poets, and novelists all use gardens as settings--and the garden is always more than a garden. This talk (or series) explores the ways Western art uses the garden as a metaphor: it can give us insight into a character; a garden can be a feast for the senses that promotes love; it can serve as a refuge from the everyday world; or it can represent the world itself as a place of order and design. Using familiar artworks, works of literature, and music examples, this talk invites us to think more deeply about the garden as a setting and what it might mean.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: david.schildkret@asu.edu | Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Education, Employment and Earnings: Past, Present, Future

Education, employment, and earnings are critically important for individuals, families, and the nation. They directly relate to productivity and the ability of the country to meet its obligations for Social Security and other government (and private) programs. We look at the patterns for these factors for the past, present, and future.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: pburgess123@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Economics, Politics, Social studies
Einstein and You

Believe it or not, there are about a half dozen of Einstein’s ideas that do, or could, affect your everyday life. Do you have a camera with a light meter or use GPS navigation in your car? Could one aspect of Relativity theory possibly affect our evolutionary rate? These and other effects will be discussed in this wide-ranging talk.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ajs50@cornell.edu

or

Emeritus College Office

Phone: (480) 965-0002

Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Science
Einstein’s Legacy (4 lecture course or single lecture)

The life and work of Albert Einstein, including the social impact of his discoveries and commentary. It is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced.

Available as an in-person lecture or 4 lecture mini-course

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Cultural, History, Science, Social studies
Empathy and Compassion in Our Lives

Life is a little easier when we experience empathy and compassion—both when we give it and when we receive it. In this workshop we will discuss some ways that people develop empathy and compassion, especially through intent listening. We will also share stories about our own experiences with empathy and compassion.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
Entrepreneurship and Innovation: The Genesis of an Idea all the way to "Shark Tank!"

Ever had a “great idea” for a new product, process, or app, but you didn’t know where to turn? So you asked your sibling, and she/he said, “it stinks!” Then your friends said, “best idea on the planet." Or worse yet, let’s assume that you aren’t in love with your “job," and you see a new idea/invention as an opportunity to free yourself from the grind and establish a better life for your children. But you don’t know HOW to process it. In this series of classes, these are but a few of the things we'll learn: 1) How to nurture your idea into a more crystallized product, process, or app. 2) Search the world for an existing version of your idea. 3) Perform a patent search. 4) Consider a prototype or using Chat GPT, go into the market and find your first customer.

We’ll use a proven rubric to provide a solid foundation for discovery and development. This is REAL value creation and venture development. Your Professor, Dr. Danny, has spent years working with venture capitalists, buying/selling/forming/flipping young businesses. And he has coached teams for Shark Tank. You'll get the"secret sauce," a listing of magic words, and concepts, that will GREEN LIGHT funding for a new business idea.

Delivery method: In-person

Email: dckneer@asu.edu
Phone: (619) 878-4991
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Business, Communications, Economics, Policy
Speaker: 
In-person Course Business, Communications, Economics, Policy
Ethics in a New Key: How Beauty and Goodness Can Help Our World

The importance of ethics in today’s world cannot be under emphasized. We live in a time when doing “good” is the most important kind of act we can do. But, how do we know “the good” in order to do good? To answer this I begin with the Greek’s understanding that goodness (ethics) and beauty (aesthetics) are connected. While the Greeks did not develop their insight, contemporary ethicists Mark Johnson and John Paul Lederach have developed a clearer understanding of that relationship. The ideas of these two thinkers are used to explore perhaps the most significant ethics philosopher of the 20th and 21st centuries: Emmanuel Levinas. His work describes the experience of living ethically, rather than telling us how to live ethically.  In so doing he provides a way into “doing the good” that transcends culture and politics.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Ethics, Social studies
Exploring Patagonia (Argentina and Chile) in 2018

In March of 2018 we spent nearly three weeks touring Argentina and Chile.  This travelogue will be a discussion with pictures of this trip.  What we discovered was much different than we expected.  The scenery was spectacular.   Questions from participants are welcomed and encouraged. 

Available as an online presentation anywhere or in-person in the San Diego area

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-399-7704 | gary@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, International, Travelogue
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, International, Travelogue
Exploring the Cosmos --- we know so much yet so little

We have learned an amazing amount about the Universe we live in. We know how old it is and can trace its history from the present day until a time a minute fraction of a second after its creation. What happened before that, we do not know but we can certainly speculate. We know that the earth, other planets and all stars are made of normal matter in the form of atoms which comprises only 5% of the mass of the universe. The nature of the other 95% is unknown to us even though we have names for it such as Dark Matter and Dark Energy. Interestingly, in order to be able to understand our vast Cosmos and its evolution, we must understand the micro world of elementary particles and the quantum.

Available as an in-person or online two lecture mini-course.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: ajs50@cornell.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Science
Exploring Virtual World Treasures

Systematic study of 3-D immersive environments and societies embedded in virtual worlds mainly on Second Life, that enable participants to simulate life practices, including such proficiencies as navigating [walk, fly], using different camera controls/views/landmark, experiencing multi literacies [chat, speak, gesture], finding destinations/mapping, storing/retrieving content/landmark links in one’s inventory, fashioning identity [change avatar appearance and dress], searching art installation sites, building sculptures, collaborating, interviewing avatars, and researching cultural differences, and medical implications. Education now includes education from “womb to tomb,” and involves transdisciplinary education and multi-literacies or new ways of communicating. We are Transformers of Interdisciplinary Technologies, Integrative Problem-solving, Inclusive and Intergenerational Learning, and Multicultural Futures. Design/Light a Candle and Help Create Future Memorials, Educational Sites, and Medical Wonders.

Participants must have an updated computer that can download Second Life (software). Available as an online participatory workshop.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Contact information: 480-930-9107 | mary.stokrocki@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Workshop Arts, Cultural, Social studies
Exploring Virtual Worlds

Searching for hidden treasures embedded mainly on Second Life, that enable participants to visit museums, in different countries, join groups, build sculptures, interview avatars, attend dance/music performances, and share results.  Virtual worlds are online 3-D multi-user environments that are computer simulations, where users create their own avatars, participate in various activities, explore different lands, and communicate with others.

Workshop topics include: Searching for hidden treasures in a Turkish carpet; visiting an art gallery where your avatar is projected into the artwork; attending a nonprofit group event that empowers disenfranchised people; exploring international settings; and participating in a dance/music performance site and its multi literacy ways of communication and sharing screenshots on Facebook.

Participants must have an updated computer that can download Second Life (software).  Available as an online participatory workshop

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Contact information: 480-930-9107 | mary.stokrocki@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Workshop Arts, Cultural, Social studies
Family Celebrations

Families can celebrate a pretty wide range of life’s events: birthdays, weddings, wedding anniversaries, graduations, job promotions, retirements, religious ceremonies, personal accomplishments, national holidays, holidays in other countries, religious holidays, World Series or Super Bowl victories, and more. Sometimes these celebrations can be simple events, with little planning. At other times, these celebrations can be very elaborate, with months of planning. In this workshop, we will share stories about some of the celebrations that our families hold.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
Family Gatherings

Family gatherings can be small or large, and they occur for all sorts of reasons. For instance, some families gather at their grandparents’ house every weekend, spending hours in conversation and they prepare and then enjoy tasty recipes that have been passed down for generations. Some gather every weekend in the fall to watch a television broadcast of their college or professional football team’s games. Some gather every summer at the family’s vacation home to spend a week together—perhaps disconnected from any digital devices. Others have family reunions every few years. With the busy lives that many families live these days, even a weeknight dinner with immediate family members could be considered a family gathering. Some families use virtual meeting platforms so that family members can enjoy one another’s company even though they may be physically separated by thousands of miles. In this workshop, we will share our stories about the ways in which our families gather.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
Family Gratitude

The literature on gratitude indicates that it has a range of benefits for both the giver and the recipient. In this workshop, we will consider the ways in which each of us has experienced moments of gratitude.  We will reflect on some of those moments, and we will write notes of gratitude to share with family and friends.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Family Myths, Mysteries, Legends, and Lore

It is not an exaggeration to say that every family has some myths, lore, legends, and mysteries. In this workshop, we share some of them with one another, and we will talk about how to unearth some of the stories behind them.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Favorite Family Holidays

 Families observe and celebrate a range of holidays for religious, secular, historical, familial, or even whimsical reasons. In this workshop, each of us will write about a favorite family holiday—how and why we celebrate it.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Favorite Memories about School Days

We have a wide range of memories about our days in school, covering our experiences with the physical spaces of schools, the technologies for learning (e.g., pens, pencils, paper, books, projectors, whiteboards, blackboards, videos), the clothes we wore, many classroom discussions, projects, classmates, teachers, extra-curricular activities, and more.  In this workshop, we will first discuss questions about a robust range of memory categories. Then each of us will write a favorite memory, and everyone will be invited to share a memory with the group.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
First Things First – Time Management for Seniors for Fun and Effectiveness in Retirement

In this highly interactive 2-hour workshop, you will learn how to best set priorities to achieve the important things you want to achieve in retirement.  This is not a one-size-fits-all time management program, but rather an individualized and interactive approach to help you have the fun and effective retirement lifestyle you desire.

Available as an online presentation anywhere or in-person workshop in the San Diego area

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-399-7704 | gary@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Social studies, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, Health, Social studies, Wellness
Food, Music, and Memory

At one time or another, most of us have tasted a food item, smelled something cooking/baking, or heard a piece of music that has taken us (mentally) back to a past experience. This discussion addresses how food and music affect our memories. Audience participation is part of this discussion.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Social studies
Frank Lloyd Wright: The Chicago Years (3 sessions)

In 1887, a 20-year-old Frank Lloyd Wright arrived in Chicago from his native Wisconsin to pursue his dream of architecture, and within three years he had become Louis Sullivan’s head draftsman. By the time Wright established his own firm, he was specializing in domestic architecture, an area often neglected by the leading architects of the day, and he was now determined to bring a new architecture to the American prairie—an architecture rooted in his philosophic beliefs concerning human nature. His first masterpiece, the Winslow House in River Forest, appeared in 1893, and scholar Grant Carpenter Manson once described it as an “amazing leap into the future.” This course—which presumes no prior knowledge—surveys Wright’s Chicago-area homes before 1910 (many of which have been beautifully restored) and examines some of the underlying philosophic premises that guided his architectural choices. 

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural
Frédéric Chopin: The Poetic Revolutionary (3 sessions)

For much of the twentieth century, major critics dismissed Frédéric Chopin as little more than a flashy pianist, but more recent scholarship has established him as a creative, harmonic genius—in fact, he is now generally viewed as a compositional innovator without peer. Though he lived to be only 39, he revolutionized both piano music and piano teaching by transforming a naturally percussive instrument into a medium of song-like lyricism and sensual, kaleidoscopic colors. Though he remains the most influential piano composer of all time, until recently, the serious scholarship examining his life and works has been surprisingly sparse. This course explores Chopin’s life and his revolutionary musical contributions through an examination of recent biographical studies, through numerous recordings of some of the century’s finest Chopin interpreters, and through live performances at the piano.

Delivery method: In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Arts, History, Humanities, Music
Speaker: 
In-person Course Arts, History, Humanities, Music
From Quarks to Cosmos

We will begin with a brief discussion of the methodology of science using as an example our picture of the atom from the Greeks to the present day. We will then go down in scale to the fundamental building blocks of matter, the quarks. As part of this, we will delve into the mysterious Higgs Boson. We will end by discussing the largest structure we know of, the universe, including the existence of Dark Matter and Dark Energy. Interestingly, we now know that in order to understand the universe and its evolution, we must first understand the micro world of quarks and the quantum.

Available as an in-person or online four lecture mini-course.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: ajs50@cornell.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Science
Gender Differences – Biology and Culture

This interesting yet very amusing session reviews the biological differences (brain and body) between men and women and how culture has exaggerated these variations over time.

  • Differences across time
  • Differences across culture
  • Differences within gender

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science, Social studies, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science, Social studies, Wellness
George Hunt: Arizona's Crusading Seven-Term Governor

George W. P. Hunt was a highly colorful Arizona politician. In 1911, Arizona voters chose Hunt the state's first governor. He went on to win election to that office six more times – in 1914, 1916, 1922, 1924, 1926 and 1930.  Prior to becoming governor, he served in leadership positions in the territorial legislature and President of the convention that produced the state’s first and only constitution. A progressive force, he was at the center of Arizona Politics from the 1890s down to the early 1930s. The presentation focuses on Hunt’s battles to stem the powers of large corporations, democratize the political system, defend labor rights, reform the prison system, abolish the death penalty, and protect Arizona’s interests in the Colorado River.  

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: David.Berman@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Politics
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Politics
Getting Started with Family History: Research Tips for Beginners

Have you thought about tracing your family’s history but don’t know where to begin?  Duane Roen will share some readily available resources, tools, and strategies for getting started with researching your roots.  This workshop is designed for those who have little or no experience in researching family history.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
History and Evolution of Music Instruments

A series of four one–hour lectures describing the history of music instruments from traditional and folk cultures to the art cultures of the East, mid–East, Europe and the “new world.” You may choose one lecture or the complete series of four one-hour lectures. The descriptions are under the individual titles in this list. Please see "1001 Arabian Nights or 1001 Musical Strings," "Making Music with “Raspberries,” "Reeds in the Wind," and/or "Thumps and Bumps in the Night."



Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information:
jhaefer@asu.edu
480-203-3110
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History, Music
History of Latin Hymnody

The composition of hymns in the Latin language began in the first centuries Anno Domino and continued through the 19th century. In this one and one-half hour lecture major authors of these hymn texts are illustrated via specific hymns from each of three eras: 1) the formative period, 2) the period of florescence, and 3) the period of decline. A handout of authors and titles will be provided.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480 203-3110| r.haefer@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
How Memory Works – Maintaining Brain/Body Wellness

This session discusses the intertwined memory systems and what research suggests is the best way to maintain memory skills throughout life.

  • Sensory memory, working memory and the components of the long-term memory system.
  • Memory retrieval and current science reviews of how memories are stored.
  • Memory and sleep
  • Brain Health, age-related memory loss vs dementia(s)  

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science
How to Live "Forever”: Leaving a Personal Legacy for Future Generations

There are many ways to reflect on our lives, but an especially import question to ask is “How do I want family and friends to remember me?” Of course, it is a very personal question, but it gets at the core of who we are. What are your values? How have those values guided your journey through life?  How have/will those value shape the memories that friends and family have of you now and when you are gone? How will your life connect you to future generations? We will write about our personal legacies.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
How to Synchronize, Harmonize, and Optimize Your Relationship with Your Doctor

In this talk we will help you communicate with your doctor, by going inside his or her mind and training, so you will better understand what you are going to be asked.  We will describe relevant pertinent information that you can volunteer to further aid the interaction with your doctor.  We will look at some of the tests that your doctor may recommend (CT, ultrasound, MRI, PET, x-rays), so you will be better informed and able to ask important questions.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Health, Science, Wellness
Humor across the Academic Disciplines

Humor is an aspect of all academic areas. For example, the Psychological Functions of humor are: To amuse, to establish superiority, to gain control, to persuade, to save face, to test limits, or to inbond or outbond with a social group. The Intellectual Functions of humor are: To amuse, to teach, to make connections, to compare two scripts—one mundane, and one dramatic. The Education Functions of humor are: To relax students, to teach facts, to argue and persuade, to teach vocabulary concepts, to teach careful observation, to problem solve, to engage students, and to aid memory enhancement. (One session)

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: don.nilsen@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Communications, Cultural, Education, Humanities, Psychology
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Communications, Cultural, Education, Humanities, Psychology
Humor and Laughter in Our Lives

Research indicates that getting angry or upset can suppress our immune systems, but finding humor in stressful situations and laughing at them can boost our immune systems, reduce stress, and even regulate blood pressure (Northwestern Medicine). Fortunately, life offers us humor in many forms and at many moments. In this workshop, we will share some of the humor that each of us has experienced. We will discuss some of that humor; then we will write about it and share what we have written.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Medicine, Psychology, Wellness
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Medicine, Psychology, Wellness
I Was a Perfect Child, But There Was That One Time

Of course, all of us were perfect children. However, there may have been a time or two—no more than that—when we fell short of angelic behavior and fell into the depths of naughty behavior. Perhaps we weren’t quite truthful when we explained that the dog ate our homework. Or maybe it was not accurate to say that a passerby threw a rock through the window. Or maybe it wasn’t by accident that dish soap was added to a sibling’s orange juice. Or maybe the baby sister did not give herself a buzz cut.  We will begin this session by sharing a few childhood stories about that one time when we were not perfect children. After that, we will each write about one moment—hopefully humorous—in childhood when we fell short of being perfect.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
If I Knew That Today Was My Last Day

In this workshop we will discuss the following question: “If you knew that today was the last day of your life, how would you spend the day?”

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Psychology
If You Could Live in the Past or Live in the Future

Many of us dream about going back and living in the past, perhaps to remedy a mistake we made or to capture a missed opportunity when we were younger. Others of us imaging living in the future to see how our world evolves (or devolves) and to find out how we or our children or grandchildren or neighbors and friends turned out. This discussion brings together attendee desires and/or perceptions of what things might be like for them if they could return to the past or advance to the future.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Social studies
It's a Wonderful Life: How Have You Affected the Lives of Others

In the 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life, George Bailey (played my Jimmy Stewart) is so overwhelmed by problems in his life that he wishes that he had never been born. In the next section of the film, he learns what life would have been like if he had not been born, and he comes to appreciate the positive—and even lifesaving—effect he has had on the lives of family and friends. In this workshop we will write about how the lives of our family and friends would be different if each of us had not been born.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Language, Memory and Communication

This session reviews the biology of language acquisition and describes how quickly language develops.  We also discuss how language establishes the foundation for written language and IQ.   

  • Stages of language development
  • Language and Verbal IQ
  • Communicative abilities in other species

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science
Leadership Every Day of Lives

Sometimes people think that leadership is associated with a job title. However, for organizations and communities and families to function as well as possible, each of us needs to act as a leader every day of our lives. In this workshop, we will discuss a few dozen leadership qualities, as well as family members (including ourselves) and friends who consistently demonstrate these qualities. Then each of us will write about a family member or friend who exhibits leadership every day.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Psychology, Wellness
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics, Psychology, Wellness
Learning to Laugh at Yourself

Research suggests that laughing at yourself has many benefits. It can help people to cope with the challenges of everyday life. It can heal us deal with self- doubt. It can make it easier to own our mistakes. It is a form of self-awareness. It is correlated with happiness. It can help us be humble. In this workshop, we will talk about our own experiences with laughing at ourselves and how we learned to do that.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Psychology
Life Lessons

Sometimes family members teach us lessons about life by talking with or to us. For example, perhaps a parent talked with us on the heels of a conversation in our elementary school principal’s office. At other times, though, family members and friends teach us about life simply by the ways that they live their lives—e.g., the ways that they treat other people, the ways that they display emotional intelligence, or the ways in which they do their jobs.  In this workshop, we will discuss some of the ways that family members and friends have taught us about life. Then each of us will write about one learned lesson.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Los Villancicos de Ibero-Americana: not just Christmas carols

Villancicos are a genre of music often translated into English as a “carol,” thus implying Christmas music. Indeed the villancico genre is much more than Christmas music. In this lecture we will explore the more than 400 villancicos found in the archive of the Catedral Basilica Metropolitana y Primada (Imaculate Concepción) de Bogotá, Nueva Granada (Colombia) — music, which is very different from that of the villancicos of Mexico, Nueva España.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-203-3110 | r.haefer@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Lost Worlds of 1863: Relocation and Removal of American Indians in the Central Rockies and the Greater Southwest

This is a presentation on the forced removal of Native Americans in the Greater Southwest, an area that includes all the lands between the northern boundaries of California, Nevada and Utah southward to the Tropic of Cancer in the Mexican North, and from the Pacific coast in the West to the mid-Kansas area in the East.  The narrative centers around the year 1863, which is simply a hook around which to hang various case studies.  “1863” is not a precursor for all that follows, or a necessary consequence of what went before.  The year “1863” allows the reader to compare the various experiences of several tribal groups—Paiute, Ute, Navajo, Shoshone, Yavapai, Apache, Yaqui, and O’odham (Pima and Papago).  Navajo and Yaqui images from a mural Navajo artist Steven Yazzie produced for the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona in the year 2000 are some of the illustrations that are used in the presentation.  It is worth noting that more Indian lives were lost and more land removed from indigenous peoples during the Civil War years than at any other time in American history.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: draat@cox.net or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Ethics, History, Social studies
Making and Playing Simple Percussion Instruments

Budding percussionists of all ages (3- 93) will learn how to make and play simple percussion instruments from wood and items found around the home. At the beginning of the workshop, Duane and Maureen Roen will show some percussion instruments that they have built (rain sticks, cajons, kalimbas, guiros, thunder drums, and dozens more), and they will explain their building techniques, as well as cultural origins of some of the instruments. Everyone is welcomed to try out the instruments. Following that, Duane and Maureen will help class participants make simple instruments using everyday objects. The workshop will end with a brief concert performed by all the budding  percussionists! Duane and Maureen will provide materials for making simple percussion instruments—e.g., blocks of hardwood and small, hard plastic bottles. If participants can bring some small, hard plastic bottles with lids (e.g.,  vitamin containers), that would be helpful (but not required).

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Education, History, Humanities, Music
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Arts, Cultural, Education, History, Humanities, Music
Making Music with “Raspberries”

A history of music instruments played by buzzing your lips from conch shells and natural horns to trumpets with valves. The brass family.

This lecture is part of a series of four one–hour lectures describing the history of music instruments from traditional and folk cultures to the art cultures of the East, mid–East, Europe and the “new world.”

Each lecture is accompanied by photographs and sound bites of a series of instruments.

See the course listed as "History and Evolution of Music Instruments" for the other courses in the series. You may choose one lecture or the complete series of four one-hour lectures.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information:
jhaefer@asu.edu
480-203-3110
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Making Your Own Family History: Keeping a Journal

How are you making history? Duane Roen will discuss keeping a diary or journal to record and reflect on our daily activities. Duane will begin the session by talking about the daily journal that he has kept with his wife, Maureen. Together they have written more than 15,000 pages as they have captured family stories to pass down to future generations. Participants will write a journal.  Participants will be invited to share their writing with the group. In turn, the group will be encouraged to offer constructive feedback that will help writers develop their writing further.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Mapping Our Memories

In this workshop we’ll tap into past memories by first drawing a rough map identifying the places and spaces that represented the focus of our world—and the people and activities in it—at a particular phase of life. What spaces were important at 10? 20? 40? Then we’ll write about a memory associated with a particular mapped place/space/experience.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Mariachi, It Might Not Be What You Think

A one-hour history of the development of Mariachi in Mexico and the United States of America with photos and sounds.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: r.haefer@asu.edu

Phone: (480) 203-3110

or

Emeritus College Office

Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu

Phone: (480)965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, International, Music, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, International, Music, Social studies
Medical School Education Today — So Different from When Your Doctor Went to Medical School if More Than 15 Years Ago!

American medical schools have undergone an amazing transformation from what had been stable learning formats for well over 70 years.  We will highlight the interesting, nascent formation of medical schools in the United States, and the evolving transformation that has markedly changed medical education today.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Health, Science, Wellness
Medical Student Research— a Relatively New, but Essential, Phenomenon

If your doctor is more than 40 to 45 years old, good chance that he or she never did any, or much, research while in medical school, unless he or she was also a PhD.  Today, research in medical school is essential for virtually all specialties, and some, as many as over 20 research entities.  The reasoning, the types of projects, and the stresses on current medical students are interesting and will be discussed.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Health, Science, Wellness
Memories about the Seasons of the Year

Memories about the seasons of the year vary depending on where we lived at the time. For example, people who have lived in the northern states have much different memories about winter and summer from those of people who grew up in the Phoenix area. Also, children’s experiences with winter in the Great Lakes states differ from the experiences of adults who have lived in that part of the country. For children, snow offers opportunities for play that don’t exist in the summer; for adults, snow is something to shovel and something that makes driving more challenging. There’s a good reason why so many “snow birds” spend the winter in southern Arizona. In this workshop, we’ll talk about our experiences with the seasons and compare them with others’ experiences.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
Memories on Wheels

A great vehicle (groan) for accessing rich memories is to think about, or ask a family member about, experiences and memorable moments related to transportation of any kind. Maybe it’s a bike or car you saved up for—or that you never had but always envied. Your bus ride to school. Maybe it’s the Farmall tractor you rode on with your dad. Or your first cross-country road trip in a rusted-out Chevy Luv pickup. Or the dusty pink Studebaker that your aunt drove. In this workshop, we will share some of those memories in conversation and in writing.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Memory and Cognitive Flexibility: Our Brain’s Executive Functions

This highly interactive session reviews the components of executive function (EF)  including attention span, working memory, planning and mental flexibility, physical inhibition and emotional regulation (self-control).   Discussion includes how and when EF skills develop and how to keep these essential brain functions working through our whole life.  Tips for maintaining memory and problem solving will be demonstrated.     

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Message to the World—Sharing My Motto for Life

In this workshop, we will discuss our views of life and how we have lived life. We will consider how we might present those views at mottos on a poster, headstone, t-shirt, coffee mug, bumper sticker, sign, or email signature. Each of us will do a rough design for one or more of these media.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
Names in My Family

Family members have first names (given names), middle names, and last names. Each of those names has an origin and a meaning. For example, “Duane” is a Gaelic name meaning “dark one,” and “Roen” is a Norwegian farm name (“Raaen”) meaning “rapidly running water.” Throughout history, naming practices have varied around the world, and in recent history, some names have gone in and out of favor. For example, “Duane” was pretty common in the United States in the middle of the twentieth century; now it is pretty rare. Besides naming practices and the historical means of names, each of us has emotions that we associate with our names.  In this workshop, we will write about our own names or the names of family members to explore what we know about them and how we feel about them.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Neighbors, Neighborhood(s), and Neighborliness

During our lives, some of us live in relatively few neighborhoods, which was often the case for earlier generations. On the other hand, some of us live in many neighborhoods—e.g., military families. Some of us may think of our neighborhoods as relatively small areas—e.g., the block that we live on. Other may think of a neighborhood as a larger area—e.g., the ten closest farms. As we think about our experiences living in few or many neighborhoods, we can reflect on what constitutes a neighborhood. How do the people who live their make a difference in our lives? What do we like our about neighborhood? How does it feel when we leave one neighborhood and move to another one? In this workshop, we will reflect on these and many more questions.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Social studies
Neurolinguistic Programming

How does our state of mind and body affect our communication and our behavior? Our mind and bodily states show up in our language and non-verbal communication, but we have the power to make changes our mind and bodily states. This presentation covers those changes.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Social studies
Neutrinos: Phantoms of the Universe (4 lecture course or single lecture)

The prediction and subsequent discovery of the neutrino, a particle of no electrical charge and very little mass, but which exists around us in inconceivable numbers, is one of the greatest triumphs of modern theoretical and experimental physics. Today, neutrinos demonstrate their worth as probes of a wide range of phenomena, from the subatomic to the cosmic. The history and concepts of neutrino physics are explained in language accessible to any high school graduate who has fulfilled general college admission prerequisites.

Available as an in-person lecture or 4 lecture mini-course

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Science
Nineteenth-Century Arizona Through the Stereoscope

During the last half of the 19th century, virtually every parlor in the country contained a stereoscope and collection of stereo views. In the time before printed photographic reproduction, radio, or movies, stereographs were a significant social focal point for families and visitors. Stereo views were sent home from travels, used in education, traded, and collected actively worldwide. Arizona and the West were popular subjects, and stereo photographers actively documented the development of our state. This presentation addresses the history of stereo photography in Arizona, from the Hayden and Powell surveys of the Grand Canyon in the 1870s to the entrepreneurs and local photographers documenting the development of our state.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Email: Jeremy.rowe@asu.edu
Phone: 480-299-9543
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  Arts, Communications, Cultural, Design, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Lecture Arts, Communications, Cultural, Design, History, Social studies
Our Best Friends

Some of us may have had one best friend throughout our lives—that neighbor or first-grade friend who has stayed with us for decades.  Some of us, though, may have had a series of best friends—one in elementary school, one in secondary school, one in college, one in more recent years.  And some of us may have added best friends along the way, so that we now have “a group of best friends.” We will begin this workshop by talking about some of our best friends and what role(s) they have played in our lives. After that, we will each write about a best friend.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Our Greatest Commitments/Passions in Life

In this workshop we will begin by discussing some of our greatest commitments/passions in life (or those of some family members)—what they are, why we have them, how we have pursued them. They may be in any realm of life—academic, professional, civic, personal. After we have discussed some examples from our lives, we will each write about one of them.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Our Role Models

From childhood to today, we have role models who have shaped us in diverse ways. Maybe our eighth-grade language arts teacher showed us how to nurture learning and learners. Maybe a grandparent lived a life that taught us the importance of empathy and compassion. Maybe a parent showed us the importance of sacrifice in the service of others. In this workshop, each of us will write about a person who has served as role model for us and others.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Our Trip to Tuscany and Umbria 2015

We spent the month of September of 2015 visiting the Tuscany and Umbrian areas of Italy on a food-oriented tour of the region.  This travelogue will be a discussion with pictures of this trip.  This trip off the beaten path gave us a good understanding of what it might be like to live in the Italian countryside.   Questions from participants are welcomed and encouraged. 

Available as an online presentation anywhere or in-person in the San Diego area

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-399-7704 | gary@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, International, Travelogue
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, International, Travelogue
Particle Cosmology: Quarks, the Higgs and the Big Bang (4 lecture course)

This course is designed for adults who, while not necessarily trained in the sciences, have sincere curiosity about the origin of the universe in which we live and how, according to current scientific understanding, it happened. The current well established standard model of the universe, including its birth, referred to popularly as the Big Bang, and the basic constituents of its contents, will be discussed with particular emphasis placed on the evidence sustaining it. The course is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced. This course is an adaptation for ASU Osher and Tempe Connections of a Junior-Senior honors course taught by the instructor at Barrett, the Honors College at ASU.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course Science
People Who Have Helped Me to Become the Person I Am

Throughout our lives, many people help us to become the people we are today. Family, friends, teachers, and mentors, for example, can do that through their direct interactions with us. However, many people who have never met us have also helped us become the people we are today—the public figure who consistently demonstrates qualities such as kindness, empathy, humility, and other features that we value. In this workshop we will talk about a range of people who have directly or indirectly helped us to become who we are today.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics
Policy and Regulation Development for Successful Organizations

The vital importance of developing an effective policy and regulation manual for any organization is detailed with details of codifying the manual's contents. Open to all individuals who are directing the purposes and regulations of an office or organization.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: nortonscott20@gmail.com
Phone: 480-838-9138
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Business, Communications, Economics, Policy
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Business, Communications, Economics, Policy
Post Card Images of Arizona, 1900 -1920

After the turn of the century, there was an explosion in amateur photography, and changes in postal regulation made the photographic postcard a popular communication medium. Within a few years, millions of photographic postcards were sent, exchanged, and collected each year. The popularity of the photographic postcard coincided with a time of significant growth and development of Arizona, and thousands of images were produced that document the social and cultural development of our state. For the first time, amateur photographers joined professionals to document parades and public events, fires and other natural disasters, developing communities, mining, Native Americans and their ceremonies, and virtually every other activity of daily life in this important pioneer period of our state's history. This presentation provides a survey of historically important photographic postcard images taken in Arizona between ca 1900 and 1920 that depict a broad range of subjects. Appropriate background information about the processes and techniques for making, reproducing, and marketing the photographs and of the boom in post card collecting are included, as is the reflection of the changing societal perception of the West in photographic style and captions on the cards themselves.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Email: Jeremy.rowe@asu.edu
Phone: 480-299-9543
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  Arts, Communications, Cultural, Design, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Lecture Arts, Communications, Cultural, Design, History, Social studies
Postmodern Art and Culture

This presentation will engage the audience in the plurality of theories, attitudes, ideas, and experiences (often conflicting) that came about in the mid-twentieth century. Postmodernism literally means after Modernism, but it is also a set of perspectives used in critical theory that refers to a point of departure from Modernism for visual art, design, film, drama, literature, architecture, business, marketing, law, and culture. Postmodernism is also an aesthetic, literary, scientific, political, social and cultural philosophy. It is a new way to understand a new world. Attempting to define it violates a Postmodern premise that no definite terms, boundaries, or absolute truth exists. (Available as an in-person lecture).

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural
Power and Sex in Shakespeare

The title of this course is not original to me but was created by Professor Nancy Guitierrez for classes in Shakespeare studies at ASU during the 1980s. Shakespeare assigns power to some of his women characters ("sex") through ("power")ful, if sometimes outrageous, language. This lecture examines how Shakespeare assigns power and uses it to create action--how action conveyed through words creates power. We will examine Shakespeare's word choice for certain women characters and how their language influences the action of the play. The lecturer expects to create dialogue among members of the audience and herself. Quotations from The Merchant of Venice, The Tempest, King John, Macbeth, Taming of the Shrew, and Romeo and Juliet serve as examples.

In Shakespeare's era, women's and girls' roles were performed by boys. Does this knowledge aid in understanding gender roles here? I question the verisimilitude and authenticity of these roles from the plays listed above and will take comments from the audience. Audience members are encouraged to read the plays, if not in total, at least in summary before attending the lecture. Synopses can serve as preparation, but familiarity with Shakespeare's language is encouraged. Referenced text will be shown on PowerPoint at appropriate times.

Delivery method: In-person

Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Humanities
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Workshop Arts, Cultural, History, Humanities
Public Speaking and Fatal Flaws in Presentations and Pitches

Ever wonder why some folks can give a great presentation, and others can’t (perhaps ... you?). Well, you CAN do this, you just need, perhaps, some coaching and tips (many learned the hard way). It’s not true that some are born with the "gift of gab” and others aren’t. It's all about CONFIDENCE ... and identifying the fatal flaws that can kill a bad pitch. Your professor, Dr. Danny, has spoken on six continents at some of the world’s greatest venues, including the Sydney Opera House, the Eiffel Tower, the White House, and Madison Square Garden. Best of all, at all of the above venues, he was the Key-Note speaker. Additionally, Dr. Danny has coached teams for Shark Tank. But this is about YOU and you CAN do this do this if you recognize and eliminate flaws that can kill you (and ruin a career!).  We’ll learn how to explain complex topics, how to engage the audience, how to read and work the room. We’ll add a drop of humor ... and humility ... too. This content is offered as a lecture … but that doesn’t give YOU the opportunity to practice and receive constructive critiquing. So, it’s best provided as a series of sessions where we identify the pitfalls, and then practice, practice, and ... practice!.

Delivery method: In-person

Email: dckneer@asu.edu
Phone: (619) 878-4991
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

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Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Communications, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Communications, Psychology
Publishing Your Family History

Although many people automatically consider books to be the best media for publishing family histories, there are many other ways to make your family history writing available to interested readers. In this workshop, we will spend some time discussing book publishing, but we will also consider a range of digital media and venues that are more cost effective than printed books and that can more easily reach a larger audience.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Putin’s Russia: Where From, Where At, and Where To

Course offers a variety of contrasts within Russian civilization during the presidency of Vladimir Putin. Examples of Putin’s “modernization” success are juxtaposed to events protesting government corruption. His recent military aggression on Ukraine is discussed in relation to Russian and Soviet past aggressions against minorities and Eastern Europe. Course emphasizes contemporary reactions within Russian society about the current state of modernization programs and of national morale during the invasion of Ukraine. Course also looks at the contemporary situation of the effects of the pandemic and war on Russian life at home, at the dacha, at the ballet and theatre performances and at traditional shopping locations and centers. Up-to-date interests of main-stream Russians in politics, demonstrations, cyber-technology, and national literature are elaborated. The course concludes with evaluating scenarios of Russia’s future.

Available as an online or in-person course of three sessions of two hours each. Course can be adjusted for one session of three hours on request.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, International, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Cultural, History, International, Politics, Social studies
Recording Oral Histories with Family Members

We will talk about some of the resources that are available, and how to use those resources.  We will talk about informed consent, as well as permission to record interviews and to archive those recordings. We will also discuss recommended practices and sample questions for interviewing family members. We will conduct a mock interview during the session. There will be time to write questions that you’d like to ask a family member.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Reeds in the Wind

Vibrating bamboo attached to instruments of wood, ebony, plastic and even other pieces of bamboo form the family colloquially called “woodwinds.”

This lecture is part of a series of four one–hour lectures describing the history of music instruments from traditional and folk cultures to the art cultures of the East, mid–East, Europe and the “new world.”

Each lecture is accompanied by photographs and sound bites of a series of instruments.

See the course listed as "History and Evolution of Music Instruments" for the other courses in the series. You may choose one lecture or the complete series of four one-hour lectures.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information:
jhaefer@asu.edu
480-203-3110
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Reflecting on the Roles of Mentoring in Our Lives

Mentors can play important roles in our lives, from childhood through adulthood. Effective mentors listen with empathy so that they know what forms of mentoring we need. Effective mentors share their experiences with us, and they reflect on what they have learned from those experiences. Effective mentors have intellectual humility, which means that mentoring is a two-way street in which the mentor and mentee learn from each other. In this workshop, we will talk about the ways that we have experienced mentoring and what we have learned from it—in school, in our jobs, and in our life with family and friends.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Reflections on Courage in Our Lives

I developed this workshop immediately after seeing a Theater of War production of Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s 1882 play Enemy of the People. I had read the play decades earlier in high school, and it had made me reflect on the nature of courage. However, when I saw the production in February 2024, my emotional response was so strong that I spent the rest of the evening reading about the topic and drafting questions for discussion and writing. In this workshop we will reflect on our thoughts about courage and our experiences with courage.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Reflections on Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is an important quality. It helps us to navigate interactions with others in a wide range of academic, professional, civic, and personal contexts. For some, emotional intelligence seems to develop early in life; for others, it seems to develop much later. In some cases, it seems to elude people. In this workshop we will discuss our experiences with emotional intelligence that we have observed and/or used.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Psychology
Reflections on Humility and Modesty in Our Lives

For more than two millennia, philosophers, and theologians have written about the nature of humility. Psychological research on humility indicates that it can enhance well-being and the ability to function socially. Worthington et al. observe that “alongside compassion, forgiveness, altruism, gratitude, and empathy, humility belongs to ‘a cluster of virtues that bind society together’” (Schaffner). In this workshop, we will discuss our experiences with humility—and related concepts—and the roles that humility and modesty play in our lives and the lives of our family, friends, and others.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Reflections on Love in Our Lives

Because love comes in many forms, and people experience those forms in diverse ways. Scholars who write about love, have identified at least eight forms: philia (affectionate love), pragma (enduring love), storge (unconditional familial love), eros (romantic love), ludus (playful love), mania (obsessive love), philautia (self-love), agape (selfless love for others). The word “philosophy” literally means “love of knowledge or wisdom,” which explains why one kind of graduate degree is called “doctor of philosophy.” In this workshop, we will discuss some forms of love that each of us has experienced. Then we will write and share our writing.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Psychology
Resilience in My Family

The American Psychological Association (“The Road to Resilience,” 2014) defines resilience as “the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or even significant sources of stress” (para. 4). Participants will write about how they or other family members have experienced moments of resilience.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Self and Society: Personal Autonomy vs. Social Responsibility in The Iliad of Homer

This course will combine a close reading of The Iliad in translation, with an analysis of the characters and an exploration of Homer's themes of conflict between personal self-assertion and the need to subordinate the self for the good of one's group. No prior knowledge of The Iliad is required but students should bring their own volumes. The translations by Richmond Lattimore and Emily Wilson are preferred, but not required.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information:
mlynk@asu.edu
480-721-4062
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Ethics, History, Humanities, Law
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Arts, Cultural, Ethics, History, Humanities, Law
Self-disclosure, Meeting New People, and Building Relationships

When we first meet a new person, we begin to determine right away whether we think we might want to enter into a relationship (friendship, romantic, and even at interviews for jobs, banking relationships, and others) with that person. But how do we do that? This discussion applies an “onion” metaphor to illustrate “self-disclosure” and how we determine whether to enter into that relationship or to move on without that relationship.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Social studies
Semana Santa Procesiones en Colombia

A look at Catholic symbolism, anthropology, and allegory in the Holy Week processions of Popayán, Colombia, including the history of such events in medieval and renaissance Spain. By exploring the use of statues, flowers, colors, and music with their symbolic (and allegoric) meanings, I document a religious expression that dominates within an otherwise Patriarchal and Commercial festival.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480 203-3110| r.haefer@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Sensory Perception from a Brain Point of View

This highly interactive session describes where and how the five senses are processed in the brain and how our senses are the basis for all our emotions and memories.

  • Sensory processing
  • Senses and memory
  • Sensory integration and creating our world view

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science
Silver Images on Glass Plates--Early Photography in Arizona, 1850-1920

Photographs have helped shape both historical and contemporary public perception of Arizona and the West. This program presents a chronological history of the development of photography in Territorial Arizona and the social and market factors that influenced the subjects and images. Examples of various photographic formats used and of historical images of daily life, public events, personalities, mining, Native Americans, and the built environment are included. The images selected to accompany the presentation are high quality copies of original vintage photographs that depict activities in many little-known regions of the state, as well as of the development of the camps, forts, and towns throughout the Territory. Appropriate background information about the photographic processes and techniques for making, reproducing, and marketing the photographs is included, as is the reflection of the changing societal perception of the West as depicted in photographic style and captions.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Email: Jeremy.rowe@asu.edu
Phone: 480-299-9543
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  Arts, Communications, Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Lecture Arts, Communications, Cultural, History, Social studies
Skills Learned from Family and Friends

Although we have acquired some of our skills in school and in the workplace, we have also learned some of them from family and friends. For example, our parents, uncles and aunts, grandparents, and siblings may have helped us develop skills in cooking, sewing, gardening, home maintenance, driving, and many more. Family and friends may also have taught us—either directly or through example--how to interact with others.  In this workshop, we will write about some of these skills and how they have served us throughout our lives.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Small Wins: Using Incremental Progress to Achieve Larger Goals

We often look to make large advances in life, yet this workshop covers the ways in which “small wins” can lead to great successes over a period of time and why those small wins are successful.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Social studies
Social Brain: Empathy via Mirror Neurons – Plus a Pop of Personality

This session reviews mirror neurons and how it affects our ability to learn, feel empathy and interpret others’ intentions. 

  • Theory of Mind – understanding others intentions, feelings, and thoughts.
  • Theory of Mind in animals
  • Theories regarding autism  

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science, Wellness
Special Relativity - Case Closed (4 lecture course or lecture)

The weird, non-intuitive phenomena of Special Relativity easily invite skepticism from those who do not understand it. As a scientific discipline, Special Relativity is held to the same criteria of observable substantiation as all of science. In this course, it will be demonstrated how Special Relativity has fulfilled this requirement to a higher degree than any other scientific law or theory. In the process of doing this, it will display and discuss all those fun unimaginable characteristics of Special Relativity that attract curious attention to it.

Available as an in-person lecture or 4 lecture mini-course

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Science
Spooky Physics: Quantum Entanglement, Quantum Teleportation and Quantum Computing (4 lecture course)

Quantum Theory consists of the physical laws and principles that govern crystalline, molecular, atomic and subatomic behavior. Quantum Mechanics is the application of these principles, primarily using mathematical equations and numerical computations. The most profound scientific revolution of the 20th Century, Quantum Theory presents a host of non-intuitive concepts and dictums. This course will introduce and survey contemporary research on some of the most confounding of these, which Albert Einstein derisively called “spooky.”

The course will be taught at the level of a college general studies course for intellectually well-prepared lay persons. No mathematical developments will be presented in class, although students should be comfortable with simple logic, formulas and graphs. There will be symbolic notation, hopefully well defined. The historical development of Quantum Theory and its standard applications through Quantum Mechanics will not be covered (cf. the instructor’s course, The First Hundred Years of Quantum Physics), but attention will be focused on the basic principles of Quantum Theory that lead to current research in quantum entanglement, quantum teleportation and quantum computing.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course Science
Stephen Sondheim: “Savior” of the American Musical Theatre (3-4 sessions)

In June of 2022, about eight months after Stephen Sondheim’s death, the New York Times’s Ben Brantley “wearily” attended yet another revival of Into the Woods to note that it was as though the  audience “had been transformed into trembling pilgrims gathered at a sacred meeting spot—sighing, gasping, sobbing.” Brantley then reflected on the fact that by then audiences everywhere were deifying Sondheim, yet over the course of his seven-decade career, the composer was much misunderstood, and a great many of his shows even failed financially. In an era when Broadway was dominated by musicals such as Hair and Godspell, he suddenly appeared with the ground-breaking “concept” musical Company, and each new undertaking was a radical departure from his previous work, often puzzling audiences accustomed to more traditional fare like Annie and Oliver. This course examines some of Sondheim’s most iconic work, including shows like A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Sunday in the Park with George, and many others, and we'll explore the innovative craftsmanship that he brought to his art.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Humanities, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Arts, Humanities, Music
Stories Our Parents and Grandparents Told Us

 If we are fortunate, our parents and grandparents told us lots of stories about their lives and the lives of others. Some of those stories may have focused on ordinary daily life (e.g., work, school, cooking and eating) or unexpected surprises (e.g. accidents, severe weather). Some of those stories may have focused on how bigger events in the world affected them—e.g., the Great Depression, World War II. We will share some of those stories in conversation and writing.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Symmetries in Modern Physics (4 lecture course)

From crystals to elementary particle families to space and time transformations, the symmetries of modern physics provide both aesthetic delights and scientific wonder. This course is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course Science
Technology across Generations

Technology changes from one generation to another, and these days it changes rapidly within a single generation. For example, in the United States farmers were still using workhorses into the 1940s, but tractors had pretty much replaced them by the 1950s. In the home and workplace, many forms of technology have changed in our lifetime—e.g., crank phones were still used in the 1950s. In this workshop we will write about technologies that have changed during our lifetime and how those changes have altered our lives in ways that our parents or grandparents could not have imagined.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The "World of Tomorrow:” A Visit to the 1939 New York World's Fair (2 sessions)

Nearly half a century after the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition—America’s greatest world’s fair—had thrilled millions of visitors, officials from the Roosevelt Administration and private industry joined forces to create what they hoped would provide a similar beacon of hope to Americans whose dreams had been crushed by an ominous Depression. While Chicago’s Fair of 1893 had been a curious mixture of palatial Renaissance architecture housing exhibits devoted to electricity, searchlights, and other high-tech marvels, the New York Fair paid little, if any, homage to the past. By contrast, it was future-oriented in every respect, symbolized by RCA’s pavilion built in the shape of a radio tube, and perhaps most emphatically by Norman Bel Geddes’s “Futurama” housed in the General Motors pavilion—a land of Oz where radio-controlled cars traveled at breakneck speeds through cities which soared to the sky.  This course will journey back to a billion-dollar exposition that once promoted science-fiction miracles as just around the corner—but fell far short of bringing about its promised Utopia. 

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History
The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the Birth of Modern American Culture (2 sessions)

Some 27 million visitors prepared for the twentieth century by visiting the World’s Columbian Exposition, which once occupied nearly 700 acres on Chicago’s south side. Most had never even seen a light bulb, but they were suddenly greeted with more electric lights than were then in use in the entire city of Chicago. The Fair was a mixture of the palatial Renaissance and the ultra-modern, for its Greco-Roman palaces were offset by the Art Deco of Louis Sullivan, and its elegant concert halls— where thousands heard Handel’s Messiah—were augmented by the talents of John Philip Sousa and Scott Joplin. This course will revisit the architecture, the art, and the music of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Music, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, Music, Social studies
The 18th Century Enlightenment: An Introduction To Modernity

The 18th Century. Enlightenment was an introduction to the culture of the 19th and 20th Centuries. However, the Enlightenment was not monolithic, but rather composed for four distinct schools of thought. 1) The Enlighten Right was represented by John Locke who advanced the theory of Natural Law and Natural Rights, which became the foundation of 18th Century Political Liberalism which differed from 19th and 20th Century Political Liberalism. 2)The Enlightenment Center, or the “Scottish School” which originated the four-stage theory of historical development: tribal, family, pastorage, urban-commercial. 3) Jean Jacques Rousseau whose theories of government by consent, the social contract and popular sovereignty were the foundations of democratic theory. 4) The Enlightenment Left, or the genesis of 18th Century Communism. Essentially composed of three figures, Abbe Morelly, Gabriel Bonnet de Mably, and “Gracchus” Babeuf, the Enlightenment Left was the womb of 18th Century communist theory. They believed in the inherent associationism of the human species, denounced private property and called for the social ownership of the means of production. Although the Enlightenment Left was the birthplace of 18th Century Communism significant differences separated the Enlightenment Left from 19th and 20th Century Socialism and Communism.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Science, Social studies
The Aesthetics of Russian Nobel Prize Winners of Literature

Have you ever wondered why six authors writing in Russian have earned the Nobel Prize in Literature? This program offers several answers while discussing the narrative style, language usage and ideas of works written by these authors. Works discussed are Mikhail’s Sholokhov’s Quiet Don, Boris Pasternak’s Doctor Zhivago, and Alexsandr Solzhenitsyn’s First Circle and Cancer Ward. The course also looks at the stories of Ivan Bunin and the poetry of Joseph Brodsky.  Svetlana Alexievich’s, the Belarus author, who earned the Nobel Prize in 2015, wrote in Russian. The course also considers her works including The Unwomanly Face of War

Available as an online or in-person course of four session of two hours each.  Adjustments for shorter times can be arranged on request.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  History, International, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course History, International, Social studies
The Big Bang and All that: The Birth of a Universe (4 lecture course or lecture)

This course is designed for adults who, while not necessarily trained in the sciences, have sincere curiosity about the origin of the universe in which we live and how, according to current scientific understanding, it happened. The current well-established standard model of the birth of the universe, referred to popularly as the Big Bang, will be discussed with particular emphasis placed on the evidence sustaining it. The course is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced.

Available as an in-person lecture or four lecture mini-course

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Science
The Bishop's Banquet: Food in Late Medieval/Early Renaissance Spain

The Archbishop’s palace in Santiago de Compostela, Spain has a marvelous banquet room with the portals hosting carvings of people and scenes related to “eating.” Together with illustrations from the marvelously illuminated manuscripts of the 13th century Las Cantigas de Santa Maria it is possible to present a conception of late medieval Spanish foods, commercial sharing of food products, music instruments involved with banquets, and, of course, the Bishop and his entourage.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480 203-3110| r.haefer@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
The Brain: Pain and Altered States

This session presents information regarding how ancient and modern humans (and other animals and birds) use organic substances to treat pain and illness.

  • Understanding the pleasure centers in the brain.
  • Understanding the biology of addiction and newest treatments.
  • Other creatures and altered states.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science
The Butterfly Effect in Our Lives

The butterfly effect is the concept that small things can have a chain of unexpected consequences. In this workshop, we will discuss how some seemingly small things have affected our lives and the lives of family and friends in ways that we would never have expected. We will each write about one of those experiences.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural
The Controversy about the Teaching of Intelligent Design/Creationism in the Science Classroom

The question as to whether Intelligent Design and/or Creationism should be taught along with Evolution in the Biology classroom has been and remains quite controversial. In order to appreciate the issues involved, I will discuss both the legal and scientific aspects of the controversy. In particular, there have been two court decisions relevant to the issue. One of these was decided by the Supreme Court in 1987, the other was decided in 2005 in Dover, Pa. I will discuss both of these in some detail. In addition, I will discuss some of the science issues involved and where the controversy stands today.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ajs50@cornell.edu

or

Emeritus College Office

Phone: (480) 965-0002

Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, History, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Ethics, History, Politics, Social studies
The Conversation That I Wish I Could Have

There are moments in our lives when we wish that we could have a conversation with an ancestor who is no longer alive. In this workshop, we will write questions that we would like to have with an ancestor.  Some of us may even take the next step and invent a dialog with that person. For example, it could be a conversation with an ancestor who immigrated to the United States in the 1800s.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The Economics of Almost Everything

Basic economic principles are highly intuitive, and they are illustrated repeatedly by the decisions and actions of individuals, firms, governments, and non-profit organizations. This course explains the basic intuition of the economic motivations and discusses many examples of economics in action in everyday life. Supply and demand are especially important in understanding these issues, including inflation.

Available as an in-person two or three session course.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: pburgess123@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Course Cultural, Economics, Politics, Social studies
The Envelope, Please: An Awards Ceremony for Family and Friends

The first Academy Awards ceremony occurred in 1929, the Emmys in 1949 and the Grammys in 1959. And many more annual awards have been added since then. But it’s time for one more: The Family and Friends Awards for our family members and circle of friends. Of course, there are many possible categories, and each category can—if you wish—have two divisions: one for family members and one for friends. And feel free to add a division for co-workers if that seems warranted. Fleshing out your reasoning for selecting each honoree is likely to bring up memories and stories that will bring rich and colorful details into your family history writing. Once you have compiled the list of winners, you can decide whether to keep it to yourself or share it with each winner privately. If you are especially bold and courageous, you might even share it on social media. Use your wisdom to make that decision.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics
The Ever-Evolving Brain: Infant, Teen, Adult, Seniors

This engaging session discusses how the brain begins to develop in utero and continues evolve throughout the human lifetime. 

  • Brain architecture & neurons and neural networks
  • Brain development across the life span with a special emphasis on senior skills
  • Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) research

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-734-7041 |  bjenz@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Health, Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Health, Science
The Fun and Importance or Becoming a Chautauquan/Living History Presenter

How can we bring history alive for children and adults alike? Living history presentations bring historical characters alive and can be educational, engaging, and entertaining. For over a decade, Dr. Larry Edmonds has provided Chautauqua presentations of Senator Carl T. Hayden (D-AZ), AZ Governor George W. P. Hunt, and Senator Barry Goldwater. This presentation provides step-by-step insights into how to create a character portrayal, from scripting a presentation to costuming tips. Many of Edmonds’ presentations were provided by mini-grants through the Arizona Humanities Council. “Marketing” your Chautauqua character is also discussed in the presentation/discussion.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, History, Social studies
The Golden Age of Broadway (3-4 sessions)

From the beginning of the Republic, musical theater formed an integral part of American culture, and after the Civil War, New York City became its epicenter. By 1900, the sheet music industry centered in “Tin Pan Alley” had become a multi-million-dollar pursuit, and by the 1920s over 200 shows were running simultaneously on Broadway. The most popular musicals were lavish variety shows termed “revues,” and men like Florenz Ziegfeld made a fortune staging annual spectacles peppered with songs by composers such as Gershwin and Irving Berlin. But in 1927, Ziegfeld produced Showboat, a landmark in Broadway history, for it brought immense popularity to the “book” musical—a continuous story that dealt with a serious subject—thus heralding the beginning of Broadway’s “Golden Age.” This course examines some of the most popular “book” musicals throughout the four-decade Golden Age that changed the face of the American theater—including Pal Joey, Oklahoma!, West Side Story, and many others.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Humanities, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Arts, Humanities, Music
The Golden Age of Film Music (4 sessions)

Even decades before movies learned to talk, music was considered essential to their enjoyment, and by the 1920s, elegant cinema palaces with massive theater organs were found throughout America. When sound arrived, the Depression led even greater numbers to seek escape through musicals, dramas, and action-adventure extravaganzas underscored by classically trained Europeans such as Max Steiner, Erich Korngold, and Miklós Rózsa. This course will examine the contributions of these men and their “descendants,” such as Bernard Herrmann, Alex North, Dimitri Tiomkin, and John Williams. (Participants will be given an opportunity to view 4 films in their entirety which will be discussed extensively in class.)

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History, Music
The Great Jazz Pianists (4 sessions)

While iconic masters such as Louis Armstrong and Charlie Parker heralded the advancement of jazz through their bold mastery of wind instruments, the softer-spoken piano was even more central to its development. The wizardry of “Jelly Roll” Morton surfaced before World War I, and by the 1920s, artists like Duke Ellington and Count Basie were using the piano to define their art’s most sophisticated harmonic and rhythmic innovations. This course tells the story of jazz though the lens of its greatest piano virtuosos, including Art Tatum (sometimes termed the “invisible man of jazz”), Earl Hines, Fats Waller, Nat Cole, Teddy Wilson, Bud Powell, Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson, and many others. Live demonstrations at the piano are augmented by audio and video recordings.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, Music
The Great Pianists (3 sessions)

From the time of Mozart, the piano has reigned as the most popular of musical instruments, for it enables accomplished performers to move their audiences to tears, as well as to stir them into unrestrained excitement. This course examines some of the greatest pianists of the past 200 years, including Chopin, Liszt, and Clara Schumann, while focusing on great artists who lived after the invention of recorded sound, such as Paderewski, Rachmaninoff, and Artur Schnabel. Pianists active today, such as Garrick Ohlsson, Angela Hewitt, and Sir Andras Schiff will also be discussed, as well as a few selected jazz artists. The course includes live performances at the piano, and audio/video examples.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Arts, Cultural, Music
The Great Women Pianists, from Maria Anna Mozart to the Present (3 sessions)

Some of the greatest pianists in history have been women, though often their fame has been eclipsed by iconic innovators like Chopin and Liszt. This course will focus on the contributions of some of the most accomplished, including those who lived before the age of recorded sound, such as Mozart’s older sister Maria Anna, Mendelssohn’s sister Fanny, Clara Schumann, Amy Fay, and Teresa Carreño. We will also listen to earlier twentieth-century masters like Dame Myra Hess, Dame Moura Lympany, Harriet Cohen, Guiomar Novaes, and Clara Haskil, as well as living virtuosos like Ann Schein, Angela Hewitt, Valerie Tryon, and Ruth Slenczynska. 

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, Music
The Income-Wealth Gap Between the Rich and the Rest

There always has been a large gap in the income and wealth of the rich and the rest. Of course, some differences in earnings, income, and wealth are necessary for an efficiently operating market economy. But the gaps have grown substantially since the 1970s. Unique data are used to explore the size and implications of this growing gap. Some potential ‘solutions’ to reduce the magnitude of the gap also are explored.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: pburgess123@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Cultural, Economics, Politics, Social studies
The LHC: Particle Physics at the Higgs Frontier (4 lecture course or single lecture)

It has been eight years since the first observation of the Higgs Boson at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Geneva, Switzerland. This event placed the capstone on the development of the so-called Standard Model of matter, which unifies the Electromagnetic force with the Weak Nuclear force. Further unification of these with the Strong Nuclear (or Strong Quark) and Gravitational forces is the continuing central mission of the LHC. This course will review the physics leading up to the Higgs observation and, in the final lecture, will survey the physics done at the LHC since then and the LHC's current status as still the world's greatest elementary particle physics laboratory. Important research at the Higgs Frontier at other facilities will also be presented. The class is presented at the college 101 General Studies level and requires no science and math beyond high school graduation.

Available as an in-person lecture or 4 lecture mini-course.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Science
The Life and Music of Sergei Rachmaninoff (3 sessions)

On a cold, rainy evening late in November of 1917, a tall, reclusive figure stood on a darkened platform at Moscow’s Nikolayevski Station awaiting the night train bound for St. Petersburg. Thus began the Westward flight of Sergei Rachmaninoff—a composer once considered by many throughout the world to be the heir apparent to Tchaikovsky. Now as he risked death at the hands of the newly formed Communist government, he sought desperately to find refuge for himself and his family. He had already achieved international fame for his piano concertos and orchestral works, but by the time he reached America, he discovered that the Soviets had confiscated his copyrights, so he was forced to become, at the age of 45, a touring concert pianist—and by the estimates of most, he became the greatest of all time. Using recorded and live examples at the piano, this course will examine both the music and the pianism of the man who some characterized as a 19th-century composer living in a 20th-century world, yet a composer whose popularity has never waned to the present day. (Available only as an in-person presentation, 3 sessions).

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: ssiek@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
In-person Course Arts, Cultural, History, Music
The Most Joyous Moment

Life is full of moments that range from the sad to the joyous. In this workshop, we will each write about the most joyous moment in our lives.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The Music and Cultures of America, Part I: The Early Years of American Music (3 sessions)

While millions of Americans have visited national landmarks such as Mount Vernon and Monticello, relatively few are aware of the rich musical life which once existed in Colonial Virginia, in Federalist Boston, New York or Philadelphia. In addition to the lightning rod, bifocals, and a highly efficient stove, Benjamin Franklin also invented the alluring glass harmonica—a musical instrument of such seductive beauty that it once charmed even Mozart and Beethoven—and he also composed a lengthy string quartet. Washington’s granddaughter studied seriously for several years with Alexander Reinagle, the most accomplished keyboardist in early America, and she became immensely proficient on the harpsichord. Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, is also credited with composing the first song written on American soil. Using recordings and live demonstrations at the piano, this course will recreate some of the important cultural backstory that is often omitted from standard history classes. 

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History, Music
The Music and Cultures of America, Part II: American Music in the Nineteenth Century (3 sessions)

Part II of a three-part exploration surveying the history of American music examines America’s quest for its own voice—a voice no longer overshadowed by British dominance. The musical views of the New England Transcendentalists, including Emerson, Hawthorne, and Thoreau are discussed, and works from the so-called “New England School” of composition will be heard, including the symphonic masterpieces of John Knowles Paine and Amy Marcy Cheney (Mrs. H. H. A. Beach). The more popular songs of Stephen Foster and Henry Clay Work will be examined in detail, as well as the “cause” songs that tackled every issue from Temperance to the Civil War. In addition, we’ll take a close look at America’s first classical music “celebrities” such as the brilliant pianist Louis Moreau Gottschalk, and the stunning Swedish soprano Jenny Lind—who was aggressively promoted by P. T. Barnum. We’ll also hear the works of three American geniuses: Edward MacDowell, Charles Tomlinson Griffes, and Charles Ives.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, History, Humanities, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Arts, History, Humanities, Music
The Music and Cultures of America, Part III: American Music after 1900 (3-4 sessions)

Part III of a three-part survey exploring the history of American music examines the multi-faceted musical cultures of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries—music that is now distinctively “American” in every respect. As two World Wars begin to attract Europe’s greatest teachers, pianists, violinists, and conductors to American symphonies—and to the faculties of American conservatories—a parallel culture is developing in the commercial world, as popular music explodes into a financial empire of unprecedented proportions. In addition to classically trained voices like Aaron Copland—and “cross-over” giants such as George Gershwin—the history of Broadway and Jazz will be examined in considerable detail, as well as the influence of radio, television, film, and the recording industry. America’s avant garde classical innovators, such as Edgard Varèse, John Cage, and Philip Glass will also be explored, as well as Broadway’s greatest innovator, the late Stephen Sondheim.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, History, Humanities, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Arts, History, Humanities, Music
The National Debt: Facts and Opinions

In this highly interactive 2-hour workshop, in the first part you will learn about the facts of our National Debt.  What is it?  What is its history? Who is it owed to?  What is the difference between the deficit and the debt? Is it too large?  What are options for reducing it? 

In the second part of the workshop, we will work together to develop our opinions about what, if anything, we should do about the National Debt. Everyone in the workshop will have the opportunity to share their opinions. 

Workshop participants should come to the workshop with both an open mind and their own opinions.  Participants should be prepared to share their views with others and to listen well to others who may have somewhat different views. 

Available as an online presentation anywhere or in-person workshop in the San Diego area

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-399-7704 | gary@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Economics, History, Politics, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, Economics, History, Politics, Social studies
The Nature and Roles of Work in Our Families

People work to earn a living, but the nature of work varies across individuals and generations. For example, in 1900 approximately 40% of the U.S. population lived on farms. By 2016, that number had dropped to 1%. The nature of some kinds of work has also changed dramatically in the last century—from our grandparents’ generation to ours—especially because of emerging technologies. The roles of work also vary across individuals even within a single generation in a family. For example, some of us see work as little more than a way to pay the bills; others see their careers as an important part of their identities. In this workshop, we will write about our own views of work—and perhaps contrast those views with those of other family members. We will also talk about resources for finding out about the nature of work in our ancestors’ lives.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The Nitty and the Gritty: Physics of Elementary Particles (8 lecture course)

This historically based course in elementary particles is designed for adults who, while not necessarily trained in the sciences, have sincere curiosity about the fundamental nature of matter in our universe and the means by which it has been uncovered. It covers the field from the discovery of the electron to current quark and Higgs physics.  It is taught at the university general studies level and has no mathematics or physics prerequisites beyond that ordinarily required for high school graduation. New concepts will be carefully introduced.

Available as an in-person 8 lecture course

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course Science
The Pandemic Experience (not your personal health)

Winston Churchill is credited with saying, “Never let a good crisis go to waste” at the end of World War II. That is, when something bad happens, what can we learn from it? In this workshop, you are not expected to reveal details about your personal health or the personal health of anyone who has confided in you. Instead, this project workshop an opportunity to write about how the pandemic has changed the world in which we live. It has affected how we work, how we learn, how we play, how we navigate life. What observations and insights about the pandemic can you share with future generations?

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The Pandemic Experience (not your Personal Health)

Winston Churchill is credited with saying, “Never let a good crisis go to waste” at the end of World War II. That is, when something bad happens, what can we learn from it? In this workshop, you are not expected to reveal details about your personal health or the personal health of anyone who has confided in you. Instead, this workshop is an opportunity to write about how the pandemic has changed the world in which we live. It has affected how we work, how we learn, how we play, how we navigate life. What observations and insights about the pandemic can you share with future generations?

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Communications, Cultural, Ethics, Health, History, Wellness
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Communications, Cultural, Ethics, Health, History, Wellness
The People and Physics behind the Atom Bomb (4 lecture course)

The development of the atomic bomb is one of the most fascinating scientific adventures in world history. In contrast to most popular understanding, it was an international effort pursued by countries both allied and adversarial. This course will address the basic nuclear physics and bomb physics needed to understand the events leading to the Trinity test on July 16, 1945 and subsequent events. It will also visit the 24 primary actors in the process as well as many in the supporting cast.

Because of time restrictions, however, the course will cover only those events from the discovery of the atomic nucleus in 1911 to the Trinity test of the “Big Boy” plutonium bomb at Alamagordo, New Mexico. It will not cover the subsequent use of the bomb nor the post-war history of international relations regarding nuclear energy and weaponry.

The course is designed for intelligent adults without formal science background. There will be very little math and no need to follow mathematical deductions.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  History, Science
Speaker: 
In-person Course History, Science
The Role of Music in Our Families

Music plays many roles for each of us and our families. For example, when we hear a song from our teenage years, it can bring back a flood of memories about what was happening in our lives at the time. Or when we hear our mother’s favorite song, it can make us think about her. When we hear a contemporary song, it can evoke a range of emotions—either because of the lyrics or the music.  For example, “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” has frequently been played at weddings even though its words tell a sad story. In this workshop, we will write about songs that have been meaningful to us and/or other members of our families.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The Role of Play in Our Lives

When we think of play, our first inclination is to see it as recreation—activity that diverts our attention from more serious matters, something that is voluntary and pleasurable. However, psychologists who study the nature and roles of play tell us that it helps children learn about the world and to develop skills for interacting with others. It is important for cognitive and social development. Play also helps adults with creativity and relationships. In this workshop, we will consider some of the roles of play in our own lives and the lives of family members.  We will write about our earliest memories of engaging in play.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
The Roles of Animals in Our Lives

Pretty much all of us have had experiences with animals. Some of us have had pets. Some of us have cared for animals on farms and ranches. Some of us are bird-watchers. Some of us have seen animals in zoos. Some of us have seen animals in the wild—either in person or via television or movies. Some of us have bonded with animals. Some of us have been afraid of animals that we’ve seen in person or in movies. In this workshop, we will discuss some of our experiences with animals and what we have learned from those experiences.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Wellness
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Wellness
The Song of the Universe: Gravity Waves

This lecture covers the prediction of gravity waves and their recent observation in highly sensitive laboratories around the world.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Science
The World of Complex Computer Crime (Darker than the Darkest Web)

Okay ... this IS heavy-duty stuff. Your professor, Dr. Danny, has been in the world of computer crime since the age of 14 (don’t ask!). This was long before the phrases “hacker” (which once meant a GOOD GUY!), cyber crime, Dark Web, and the Internet existed. We’re not discussing your garden-variety crime here (phishing, duplicating rabbits, camera access, i.e. the crimes that typically make the papers. HINT: the exotic crimes never make the paper, as the criminal is rarely caught.) And major crimes, say extortion of Fortune 500 corporations or the loss of $5 billion in corporate IP are never reported. This is a world of James Bond-ian villains who view these crimes as victimless. And they view major targets as “trophies” to brag about (albeit surreptitiously). Hold onto your hats, as we peek behind the curtain into the world of digital crime.

NOTE: Some of the content in this course may be disturbing.

Delivery method: In-person

Email: dckneer@asu.edu
Phone: (619) 878-4991
or
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Business, Communications, Cultural, Economics, International, Policy
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture, Course Business, Communications, Cultural, Economics, International, Policy
This Is Who I Am—This Is What I Want You To Know about Me

It’s an understatement to say that many problems in the world exist because we don’t know enough about one another. First and foremost, it’s difficult to have empathy for someone and to act with compassion toward that person if we don’t know what it’s like to be that person. The late Anthony Bourdain hosted a wonderful television series, No Reservations, that introduced viewers to people around the world in such a way that made viewers realize that humans have much in common, no matter where they live and what their identities are. Bourdain was skilled at asking questions that got people to talk about who they are and what they want others to know about them. In this workshop, we will discuss questions that help let others know who we are and what we want them to know about us. Following the discussion, we will write for a while and share what we have written. Everyone is encouraged to share, but no one is required to do so.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Ethics, Psychology
Through the Veil: Tales of Iranian & Turkish Art, Education, and Culture

My purpose is to reveal glimpses of Turkish & Iranian culture through phenomenological and photographic description of my experiences. I traveled from Munich Germany into Turkey & Iran in my new VW station wagon in 1974. Many of these places are not frequented by tourists. Because I traveled with a biology teacher, we were granted access to hidden treasures. I also worked for the World Bank in Turkey in 1994 & 1995. I taught ceramics, photography as well as weaving. This is a narrative that reveals integrated sensual art forms, religious beliefs, aesthetic attitudes, educational practices, and gender issues. I then create a text for further interpretation concerning issues of fundamentalism and education.

I own different rugs and I dress in my vest with rug swatches embedded. First time I presented this my students were amazed. I provide questionnaires as we search for hidden treasures in the rugs.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-930-9107 | mary.stokrocki@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Social studies
Thumps and Bumps in the Night: Scaring Spirits Away or Making Music

Organized sounds: from Charivari to music with rattles and drums from one simple instrument to 100s. A history of percussion instruments.

This lecture is part of a series of four one–hour lectures describing the history of music instruments from traditional and folk cultures to the art cultures of the East, mid–East, Europe and the “new world.”

Each lecture is accompanied by photographs and sound bites of a series of instruments.

See the course listed as "History and Evolution of Music Instruments" for the other courses in the series. You may choose one lecture or the complete series of four one-hour lectures.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information:
jhaefer@asu.edu
480-203-3110
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Toiling under Tyranny: Musicians under Nazism and Communism (4 sessions)

In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to writers and artists who were forced to flee Hitler’s Germany, but a great deal of information has also surfaced about the brutalities Stalin inflicted on famous composers in the 1930s such as Dmitri Shostakovich. Totalitarian governments have always restricted the freedom of artists, and this course examines the impact of modern dictatorships on World War II-era musicians such as Paul Hindemith, Kirsten Flagstad, and Wilhelm Furtwängler, as well as on Soviet Post-War performers such as David Oistrakh and Sviatoslav Richter. The careers of Soviet defectors such as Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov will also be examined. 

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: ssiek@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History
Tracing Your Norwegian Roots

The resources for doing Norwegian genealogy are amazing - they go back to the 1500s, they are online, and they are free. Duane Roen, who has been tracing his Norwegian ancestry since he was a teenager (“Roen” [“Raaen”]is a Norwegian farm name), will share resources and tips for finding information about your ancestors.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Understanding Relativity: Einstein’s Theories made Relatively Simple

Einstein’s theories of Special and General Relativity are considered two of the greatest achievements of the human mind. They are both based on simple principles that lead logically to amazing predictions that have been verified including, most recently, Gravitational Waves, predicted in 1916, and now observed in 2016.

In the course of these lectures, we will introduce these principles and see how they lead to such phenomena as the relativity of length (length contraction) and time (time dilation) in Special Relativity and Black Holes in General Relativity.

While most of these phenomena only appear at extreme conditions of speeds near the speed of light or very intense gravitational fields, they also have effects on our everyday life. For instance, GPS navigation would be useless if both theories were not taken into account. Also, we can reasonably speculate that the rate of evolution would have been radically affected if not for time dilation.

Available as an in-person or online as a three or four lecture mini-course.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: ajs50@cornell.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Science
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Course Science
Using Cemetery Records for Family History Research

Family historians can access a wide range of sources for conducting research, including cemetery records.  In this workshop, we will talk about how to find cemetery records and how to make good use of them. Even though these records contain limited information, they can lead us to other sources that can unlock the mysteries of our ancestors’ lives.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Using the Techniques of Creative Nonfiction to Writing about Family History

Would you like to jazz up your family history writing?  In this session, Duane Roen will share a range of simple techniques that creative nonfiction writers use. We will engage in a writing activity.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Weaving Cultural History into Our Family History Writing

Sometimes family historians have only names, dates, and places for ancestors. But the more we gather names, dates, and other genealogical facts, the more we yearn for more personal connections to and understanding of those who came before us, found in stories about their lives and accounts of their daily struggles, hopes, and dreams. How can we enrich the stories that we write about our ancestors if we have relatively few details about their lives? Duane Roen will talk about using cultural/social history to flesh out the stories that we write about ancestors. Such history can give us a better understanding of what our ancestors experienced.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
What Are Virtual Worlds and Why Should I Care?

Virtual worlds are popular digital multi-user environments where everything is built by avatar-residents except for the land. For over 20 years, Second Life is the most popular virtual environment to offer artistic, medical, ethical and educational Implications. Explore Diverse Mental Health Artists, Virtual Ability Island, with lots of mentoring, meet its host and different ability participants, discover diverse resources [Prosthetic Museum], artists and their exhibitions [one artist is totally disabled], explore building resources on Cape Serenity, tour inside Brodman’s Brain on Inspiration Island and participate in a musical communal event for enlightenment. Light/Draw a Candle and Help Create Future Memorials, Educational Sites, and Medical Wonders.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Contact information: 480-930-9107 | mary.stokrocki@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Lecture Arts, Cultural, Social studies
What Do Diseases Look Like Seen Through the Fascinating World of Radiology?

In this talk we will take a fantastic journey through the spectrum of radiologic imaging to familiarize you with well-known diseases themselves and their appearances.  Many diseases that you’ve heard about will be highlighted including Covid pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, aneurysms, tumors, stroke, heart attack, and inflammatory conditions such as diverticulitis, appendicitis, and pancreatitis.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Health, Wellness
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture Health, Wellness
What is Home for You?

In the earlier years of our country and the world, most people never strayed more than 25-50 miles from the place where they were born. With the advent of the train, the car, and the airplane, we not only visit places our ancestors never dreamed of visiting, our children and grandchildren go off to college in cities that may be hundreds of miles from where they were born and many of them work at jobs that have taken them far away from where they grew up. This discussion covers the varied concepts of “home” and what constitutes “home” for many of us.

 

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Larry.Edmonds@asu.edu or DoctorEdmonds@gmail.com or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Cultural, Social studies
What is mathematics about?

Most people think they know. My dentist once asked, “How can you do research in mathematics? Isn’t it all known?” We start with a short poem. Written by a prominent mathematician, it says precisely what math is about. Asked to interpret that poem, most senior math majors had no clue! We will discuss modern developments of the 19th and 20th centuries, rather than the ancient Greeks and Babylonians.

Offered as either a single lecture or as a short course with an extended treatment of developments from the 17th century to the present.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom)

Contact information: 480 219-1607| Brinto@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom)
Subject:  History, Science, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom) Lecture, Course History, Science, Social studies
What's So Funny?

What makes us laugh? What do commedia dell'arte, the Marx Brothers, and the latest TV sitcom have in common? Even though the subjects of humor are highly cultural, the ways we make one another laugh are common to all humanity: laughter is basic to the human condition. This course explores the fundamental means of comedy, using examples throughout history to show the shared basis of humor and laughter.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: david.schildkret@asu.edu | Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Humanities
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History, Humanities
Where were the women in MY Art History books? Women Artists and their Art

If you studied art history in or before the 1970s you realized that art by women were minimized or not acknowledged at all. H. W. Janson’s History of Art contained no women artists or artworks made by women. Not one. Even in the 1986 revised edition only 19 illustrations of women’s art (in black and white) appeared along with the 1,060 reproductions of work by men. These exclusions are a catalyst for this engaging and visual (of course!) presentation about the history and ideas of women artists and a discussion about a current approach to art history. (Available as an in-person lecture).

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information: Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Lecture
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Arts
Speaker: 
In-person Lecture Arts
Who Wrote Martin Luther King’s "I Have a Dream?"

Notwithstanding reports that Martin Luther King extemporized the final portion of “I Have a Dream,” the speech actually exemplifies a oratorical tradition called the African American Jeremiad that was generated by anti-slavery crusaders, such as Frederick Douglass. For his “Let freedom ring” conclusion of “I Have a Dream,” King first quotes, then riffs off Samuel Smith’s “America” (“My country ‘tis of thee”) from 1831—a favorite song of abolitionists and one quoted much later by anti-lynching orator Ida B. Wells and A.M.E. minister Archibald Carey. “I Have a Dream” struck many white Baby Boomers as a revelation, mainly because of their inattentiveness to this tradition. The sublime speech did not succeed primarily because it was unique, but, rather, primarily because it embodied oratorical elements that had been honed and “road-tested” by generations of African American orators. Far from extemporizing, King left nothing to chance. (One session)

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Email: keith.miller@asu.edu
Emeritus College Office
Email: emerituscollege@asu.edu
Phone: (480) 965-0002

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Ethics, History, Politics
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Cultural, Ethics, History, Politics
Why Do Family History?

Duane Roen will describe some of his experiences with family history research, sharing his favorite stories. As he does so, we will discuss similar experiences of those who participate in the workshop.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Why I Hate Opera

In this introduction to the world of opera, we explore the origins of the genre, how it works, and why lots of people think they don't like it (but they're probably wrong). Examples range from Monteverdi to Mozart and Verdi and demonstrate the power of music and words to provide a dramatic experience more meaningful than either one alone can create. May be given as a single lecture or as a 3- to 4-session course.

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: david.schildkret@asu.edu | Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Lecture, Course
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Lecture, Course Arts, Cultural, History, Music
Writing about Family and Food

In this workshop, we will consider the roles of food in our family experiences.  How has food helped to define family events and places?  How do we associate certain foods with specific family members?  What special roles do certain foods play in holidays and rituals? How have our relationships with specific foods changed over time? Participants will respond to some questions to write about food.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing about Family Events

Family events such as holiday gatherings, weddings, birthday parties, vacations, and others often loom large in our memories. In this workshop each participant will respond to a series of questions to write about a memorable family event.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing about Family Heirlooms

Family heirlooms offer rich opportunities for writing about family history. For this session, please bring one or more family heirlooms—either the physical object or a mental image of it. Duane Roen will introduce several writing activities for seeing the descriptive and narrative details found in those heirlooms.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing about Family Members

How can we get started writing about family members? Duane Roen will discuss the family experiences that offer rich material for writing and will share strategies for beginning the process, including an easy hands-on activity that will get participants writing about a memorable family member.  Participants will respond in writing to a series of questions designed to generate concrete details about family stories. After recording these details, participants will be invited to share their writing with the group. In turn, the group will be encouraged to offer constructive feedback that will help writers develop their writing further.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing about Family Photographs

Family photographs offer rich opportunities for writing about family history. For this session, please bring one or more family photos—either a physical copy or a mental image. Duane Roen will introduce several writing activities for seeing the descriptive and narrative details found in those photos.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing about Family Places

Some places are special to families—our childhood homes, other family members’ homes, places of worship, favorite vacation destinations, and others. In this workshop, each participant will respond to a series of questions to write about a memorable family place.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing about Family Traditions

Families have traditions. Some of them are centuries old—e.g., eating holiday foods that were eaten in our ancestors’ home counties. Some are relatively recent—e.g., taking a photo on the first day of school each year. Sometimes we know the origins of our traditions; sometimes we may not ever realize that something is a tradition. In this workshop, we will write about family traditions that are important to us or ones that we no longer observe, (so please bring paper and pen or a laptop.)

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing Autobiographies and Memoirs

Learn about strategies and resources for writing autobiography and memoir to tell your family’s story. We will also engage in a writing activity based on a series of questions.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing Eulogies

We will discuss strategies for writing eulogies that reflect the priorities of the person’s life and that celebrate the person’s life. We will also draft eulogies during the session.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing Family History for Special Occasions

How to write family history for special occasions. Duane Roen will discuss ideas for sharing your stories with family members and friends to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and holidays.  He will discuss the experiences that offer rich material for writing about cherished moments in our lives. The workshop will include an easy hands-on activity that will get participants writing . Participants will be invited to share their writing with the group. In turn, the group will be encouraged to offer constructive feedback that will help writers develop their writing further.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Writing Obituaries as Historical Documents

We will discuss strategies for writing obituaries that will help future family historians as they conduct research on their ancestors. We will discuss some examples that exemplify some of these strategies. If time permits, we will also begin to draft obituaries during the session, and we will share a few of them.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Your Family in the Americas

Whether your ancestors are indigenous to the Americas, came via migration, bondage or immigration, you will have an opportunity to explore writing about that experience in this session. If you don’t know much about your family’s story, we will discuss strategies for learning more.

 

Delivery method: Online (Zoom) or In-person

Contact information: 480-242-9388 | duane.roen@asu.edu or Emeritus College Office at 480-965-0002 | emerituscollege@asu.edu

 

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  Online (Zoom), In-person
Subject:  Cultural, History, Social studies
Speaker: 
Online (Zoom), In-person Workshop Cultural, History, Social studies
Your Hero’s Journey

In a hero’s journey, the protagonist goes on a journey, overcomes adversity, and is changed by the experience. Literature is filled with such journeys, but all of us have experienced such journeys in our own lives. In this workshop we will discuss the features of a hero’s journey, write about one of our own hero’s journeys (or a family member’s), and share that story with other participants.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural, Education, Social studies
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural, Education, Social studies
“There’s No Place Like Home”: What Does “Home” Mean to Me?

For some people, home is where they were born and reared. For some, it’s where they live now. For others, it’s where their ancestors lived centuries ago. Pliny the Elder said that “Home is where the heart is.” In this workshop, we will reflect on what “home” has meant to each of us at various points in our lives.

Delivery method: In-person

Contact information:
duane.roen@asu.edu
480-242-9388
or
Emeritus College Office
480-965-0002
emerituscollege@asu.edu

Type of session:  Workshop
Delivery method:  In-person
Subject:  Cultural
Speaker: 
In-person Workshop Cultural