About This Course
Culture shapes everything we do, from the media we consume to the values we hold. This five-week minicourse examines contemporary culture through an academic lens, exploring social movements, media influence, identity formation, and the forces that shape our collective understanding of the world.
Led by faculty with expertise in cultural studies and sociology, this course offers a thoughtful examination of how culture evolves, who shapes it, and what it means for our daily lives. We'll discuss everything from social media's impact on public discourse to the role of art in social change.
Weekly Topics
- Week 1: Understanding Cultural Studies - Introduction to key concepts, theoretical frameworks, and the academic study of culture
- Week 2: Media and Power - How media shapes narratives, influences public opinion, and reflects societal values
- Week 3: Identity and Representation - Exploring how culture constructs and represents different identities
- Week 4: Social Movements and Change - The role of grassroots movements in challenging and reshaping cultural norms
- Week 5: Contemporary Cultural Issues - Examining current debates and the future of cultural discourse
Who This Course Is For
This course welcomes anyone curious about the cultural forces shaping modern society. No prior academic background in cultural studies is required. You might be drawn to this course if you find yourself questioning why certain narratives dominate public discourse, how media influences your perceptions, or what drives cultural change.
Ideal for lifelong learners, retirees, community members, and anyone seeking deeper understanding of contemporary culture. The course encourages discussion and diverse perspectives.
Who This Course Is NOT For
This course does not offer professional credentials, career advancement, or academic credit. It's not designed for those seeking certificates or qualifications. If you're looking for career-focused training or degree program credits, this course will not meet your needs.
What to Expect
Each 1.5-hour session combines brief presentations with group discussion. The instructor facilitates conversation rather than delivering lectures. You're encouraged to share your perspectives and engage with others' viewpoints. No homework is required, though optional readings are available for those who want deeper exploration.
The atmosphere is informal and intellectually curious. Questions are welcomed. Disagreement handled respectfully. The goal is mutual learning, not performance or evaluation.
Teaching Philosophy
Cultural studies thrives on diverse perspectives. Our instructor brings academic expertise but values the life experiences and insights that adult learners contribute. This course treats students as thinking adults capable of complex analysis, not as passive recipients of information.
We examine cultural phenomena from multiple angles, acknowledging that interpretations vary. The course maintains academic rigor while remaining accessible to those without formal training in the field.
Important Disclosure
This is a noncredit educational course offered solely for personal enrichment and intellectual exploration. It does not grant certificates, credentials, or academic credit. It makes no claims about career advancement, income potential, or professional development. This course is about learning for its own sake.