Alumni College Track A

1A) "Is there a Future for Democracy in Russia?" – Dr. Joe Tulbane 

This mini-course will explore the recent changeover of Political leadership from Vladimir Putin to Dmitri Medvedev and its implications to the future of Russian democracy and economic liberalization.  The discussion of this change, will begin with a brief review of the recent political, economic, international relations, and social history of the country, continue with an analysis of the situation at the moment of changeover, and finally with a projection of the possible directions that Russia might take in the future.  Interaction between the lecturer and the audience is highly encouraged.

2A) " Contemporary Art that Celebrates and Challenges the Human Condition" -- Fr. James P. Neilson, O. Praem. 

Artists have, throughout time, gladdened and delighted us with images of beauty and grace, revealing the triumph of the human spirit…they have also shocked and disturbed us into recognizing the world’s horrors.  This class will introduce the participants to the work of several contemporary artists who seek to perpetuate the prophetic role of the artist as social advocate, cultural critic, and historical commentator.  By viewing a variety of very different works of art by men and women who are deeply committed to enriching the heart and mind with new ways of seeing and understanding life’s rich pageant, this class seeks to better acquaint the participants with visions of wonder, beauty, sorrow, and conversion.

3A) Math Education CAN be Fun! -- Dr. Scott Kirst

In the last 15 years, the amount of medical and clinical research on how the brain processes, incorporates, and evaluates information has many educators thinking that there needs to be a positive change in mathematics education. In this seminar, you will get a chance to see research-based ways in which the education of mathematics is changing to accommodate the needs of all learners in all grade levels of math education. Hands-on demonstrations, discussions, and interactions with others will help demonstrate why math-phobias are becoming a thing of the past. Bring your own math anxiety and a willingness to share and I promise you will learn something and feel more confident about your own, and your children’s, math perception.

For more session options, see Track B

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