University
for Seniors
University of Minnesota Duluth
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University
for Seniors |
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LISTING OF SPRING 2008 STUDY GROUPS
| This
humanities-based program provides opportunities for intellectual and cultural
development and stimulation for individuals age 50 and older. |
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| Study groups
are for the joy of learning,
|
• The Study Group Committee is lead by either a chair or co-chair persons
selected by the US President. (Current co-chairs are Ron Kyllonen, 218/525-4027
and John Collins 218/724-5929) This committee plans, organizes and
schedules the study groups each term.
• Thirty-two plus study groups are offered in each of three eight week
terms. Study Groups meet once a week for a two-hour session. These groups are
listed below and in Happenings.
• Study Group proposal forms are available through the US Study Group
Committee. A course outline is submitted for review by the committee and staff.
• 65% of our study groups are lead by our members; the other 35% are facilitated
by our members taking advantage of the wealth of knowledge our campus professors
and community leaders are willing to share with US.
• Classrooms are located in the Kirby
Plaza (rooms 303, 305,309,and 311). The rooms are equipped with standard
audio visual equipment.
Study groups are eight weeks in length, unless otherwise listed. Each study group is limited by the size of the room and the wishes of the leader, with a maximum number of 40. All classes are filled based on members’ priority choices.
February 29 is
the deadline for early registration. Oversubscribed study groups are
determined, and members are notified if wait-listed. Additional registrations
received after February 29 will be placed in open classes or added to the waiting
lists. Remember to list your study group choices in priority order when you
register. (4-week classes each count as one class). Note carefully on your fee
statement the starting date, time, and location for each study group. (Note
special times and /or dates indicated by an *).
NOTE! Online Registration is available
NOTE:
* Denotes a special time and/or dates for the study group.
Singing for Joy
[001] 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
We will be studying and singing Broadway music, spirituals, and the classics.
Start your week out with a song!
Nancy Neilson is a US member and music director at Glen Avon
Presbyterian Church.
Spanish [002] 9:00
– 11:00 a.m.
This course is for those who have a background in Spanish and would like to
study beyond the basics. We will study through the use of conversation, reading,
flash cards, writing, games, music, and videos. Text will be determined by the
leader and available in class.
Joan Varda is a US member and retired Spanish teacher.
Learning to Draw
[003] 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
In this hands on class, participants will be introduced to basic drawing media,
different drawing styles, and a chance to develop their creativity and confidence
in drawing. Learning to see and compose will be key features of assignments.
This class is limited to 18.
Arlene Renken is a US member who taught art for 28 years.
* Prescription Drugs
[004] 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Research shows that 40 percent of us have at least one health problem directly
related to medications. Learn what you need to know in order to minimize your
risk for side effects, as well as what you need to know about increasing the
effectiveness of commonly used prescription products.
Karen Bastiaelli is a licensed pharmacist and works for the
UMD College of Pharmacy. (Note 4 Weeks Only: Mar. 24, 31 and April
7, 14)
Great Comedians
[005] 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Come for the laughs! We will explore the world of comedy and watch some of the
world’s greatest comedians. Enjoy Bob Hope, Jack Benny, Red Skelton, Victor
Borge, Carol Burnett, and many more!
John Collins is a US member who enjoys entertaining and having
fun!
Strong Bodies Stay
Young [006] 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Join us and turn back the years! We will use weights to recover bone and muscle
loss, do stretching exercises to recover the flexibility in our joints, and
participate in aerobic activity for a healthy heart. Please bring three to five
pound weights to class.
Cherrol Soiseth is a US member and an experienced senior fitness
instructor.
FDR: The Great Depression,
the New Deal and World War II [007] 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Explore the life and career of one of America’s most important and complex
figures, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. We will view the PBS video FDR,
which uses archival films, home movies, and interviews with family, friends,
and historians to bring this towering leader to life. We will consider the question:
Should a president deceive Congress and America to lead a reluctant nation into
a war that he thinks is necessary?
Neil Storch is a US member and UMD Professor Emeritus.
* Perspectives on
the Middle East [008] 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
In the class we will review the economic, political, religious, and social influences
that helped shape today’s Middle East. We will also review the elusive
efforts to bring a comprehensive peace to the area with special emphasis on
the U.S. role.
Tom Homan has taught Middle Eastern studies in India, Tajikistan,
and the US. (Note 4 Weeks Only: Mar. 25 and April 1, 8, 15)
* Miscarriages of
Justice? [009] 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
In this study group we will investigate four cases tried in civil and military
courts, including the trial of Sacco and Vanzetti, the trial of the Scottsboro
boy’s assault, the court martial of General William Mitchell, and the
court Martial of General Tomoyuki Yamashita.
Phil Nast is a US member with an M.A. in History. (Note
4 Weeks Only: April 22, 29 and May 6, 13)
The Question Behind
the Question [010] 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
We will be unpacking the question behind the question. This study group will
be peer led with class members choosing the topics for weekly discussions.
Margaret Cleveland and George Johnson are
US members.
Mythology [011]
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Are we wired for myths? Are there doorways between an individual and the collective
unconscious? Are myths still emerging? Join us as we explore these and other
questions through videos, texts, visual aids, and discussion.
Koresh Lahkan and Diane Bean are US members
with an interest in mythology.
* Dancing: Ballroom
and Salsa [012] 10:30 a.m – 12:00 p.m.
For those looking to improve their dancing skills, or for those who are beginning
or have two left feet, come and experience the world of ballroom and salsa dancing!
Whichever category you fall into, you are guaranteed to learn some steps and
have fun! This class will take place in SpHC 33 and is limited to 30.
Judy Sabee is a US member. (Note 6 Weeks Only:
Mar. 25 and
April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29)
This I Believe [013]
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Join us each week as people from various spiritual/ethical beliefs and practices
share with us what they believe, why they believe it, and how this carries into
their daily lives. Among those sharing are an American Indian, a Catholic Sister,
a Bahai, and an Atheist.
Jill Lahkan is a US member who is curious and enjoys learning.
Colorado Plateau
[014] 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Explore the Colorado Plateau as we learn about its geography, geology, ecology,
and history. Through lecture and slide presentations, we will discover the Colorado
Plateau’s many unique national parks and public areas.
John Moeller is a US member and retired science teacher who
enjoys hiking.
The Power of Story
[015] 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Learn the importance of telling your story. Each week we will spend time orally
relating stories of life experiences. Information and guidance will be presented
from the book Storycatcher, by Christina Baldwin. Journaling will be
encouraged. This class is limited to 15.
Myrna Matheson is a US member who enjoys hearing others tell
stories.
Memory into Memoir
II: The Next Chapter [016] 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
You’ve gotten off to a good start, you have generated a number of pieces,
but you need some support to keep writing. In this continuation of Memoir I,
you will be with others who want to share and discuss their writing as you generate
new material and rework the old. We will work on narrowing your focus to a recurring
theme or a significant period in your life. This class is limited to 15.
Claudia Cohen is a US member and retired English teacher who
loves reading and writing.
Meet the Designers
[017] 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Discover the world of design! Join us on guided tours of various design studios,
suppliers, and galleries. You must have your own transportation, and be able
to walk and stand for up to two hours. This class is limited to 15.
Connie Schenck is a US member who has taught Interior Design
and loves the visual arts.
German Film, 1920-1930:
From Caligari to Hitler [018] 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
The Weimar Republic produced the Golden Age of German Cinema. The films
are as interesting for their themes of regression as they are for the styles
of their art. In addition to The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, we’ll
view Nosferatu, The Last Laugh, M, Three Penny Opera, and
The Blue Angel, among others. The text book, From Caligari to Hitler,
by Siegfried Kracauer, is optional.
Clarice Roseen is a US member and former film student.
Economics [019]
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
This study group will examine the impact war has had on U.S. Economics from
1898-2007. We will discuss the benefits and costs accrued to the victor and
the anguished.
Jerrold Peterson is a retired UMD Economics Professor.
Minnesota: The Road
to our 150th (ITV) [020] 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
On May 11, 2008, Minnesota will celebrate its sesquicentennial of statehood.
What has brought us from the arrival of the first Europeans to today? Join us
and examine the many people, events, and things that have made Minnesota what
it is at 150! This class is limited to 30 and will meet in Library 410.
Mary Lewerenz is a US member, retired teacher and lifelong
student of U. S. and Minnesota history. See article in NewsNotes on ITV.
The Glory of Scotland
[021] 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Explore the history of Scotland from the ancient Pictish Era to the present.
We will also study this country’s rich customs, art, poetry, and music.
David S. Bouschor is a retired District Judge and a Fellow
of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.
The United States
in World War II [022] 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Through lecture, video, and class discussion we will explore the role of the
U.S. in World War II, both on the fighting fronts and the home front. Class
members will be encouraged to share personal experiences.
John Sjogren is a US member with an interest in the history
of the military and the Navy.
Pilates [023] 9:30
– 10:30 a.m.
Falling down is the leading cause of injuries for women and men over 55. STOTT
PILATES helps improve your balance and coordination, and can help prevent injuries.
It can improve your overall strength, flexibility, and endurance. Pilates can
revitalize and align your body, sharpen your mind, and help you find relief
from stress and back pain. For those with or without experience, we will work
hard and have fun! Note: Please consult with your physician before beginning
this or any exercise program.
Carol Boyer Peterson is a certified STOTT PILATES instructor
with a Ph.D. in higher education.
The Development
of the Broadway Musical [024] 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
From its origins in the minstrel and vaudeville eras through ragtime, Tin Pan
Alley, the jazz age, the golden age of musical theater to the present, we will
trace the history of Broadway musicals using some excellent DVDs with many musical
illustrations. We will also see excerpts from several great musicals along with
biographies of Broadway movers and shakers.
Susan Nelson is a US member and theater buff; Bob Norstrom
is a US member and music lover.
* Birding [025] 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Come and explore the world of birding. This class will focus on local bird identification,
banding techniques, bird behavior (including migration), and avian ecology.
Participants will help capture and identify (age and sex) birds at the Hartley
Nature Center.
Pete Gravett is the Executive Director at the Hartley Nature
Center in Duluth. (Note 4 Weeks Only: April 24 and May 1, 8, 15)
Great Decisions
[026] 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
In this study group, we will cover eight subjects, each from the text, Great
Decisions 2008. Participants will be expected to read and be prepared to
discuss the subject for each week. Text is required: Great Decisions 2008.
Howard Meyer is a US member and student of natural and global
issues.
* Gooseberry Falls
State Park [027] 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Enjoy the splendors of Gooseberry Falls State Park as we learn about its geological
features and its opportunities for visitors. We will discuss the development
of the North Shore State Parks, the role of the CCC, and its present day programs.
Helen and Paul Hanten are US members and have been the hosts
at Gooseberry Falls State Park for the last 7 years. (Note 4 Weeks
Only: March 27 and April 3, 10, 17)
* Compassionate
Listening [028] 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Learn how to become a compassionate listener. Participants will be exposed to
compassionate listening in theory and film, and have the opportunity to practice
the skill with those who share their beliefs as well as with polar opposites.
We will discuss how bias shapes human perception and conflicts arise. Optional
texts: Peace in Our Lifetime (Insights from the World’s Peace Makers)
and Listening with the Heart (A Guide for Compassionate Listening).
Gary and Judy Gordon have an interest in building bridges between
people divided along perceptual lines. (Note 4 Weeks Only: April
24 and May 1, 8, 15)
Reading Poetry
[029] 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
In this modern poetry class we will read and analyze samples of English and
American poems from the Victorian Era to the present, concentrating on the ones
that we all should know and skimming through the others that it would be nice
to know. Required text: The Voice That is Great within Us: American Poetry of
the Twentieth Century.
Cal Benson has taught at the high school and college level
for 40 years.
Reading Plays [030]
11:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m.
In this study group, we will be reading plays aloud and discussing them. We
will be reading for pleasure, not dramatic effect. Participants can choose what
they want to read from the available texts.
Jeanne Goessling is a US member who enjoys plays.
Great Books [031]
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Students will read and then discuss selections from the anthology, Great
Conversations III. Required text: Great Conversations III.
Ron Kyllonen and Bill Miner are US members.
More Opera [032]
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
The theme for this opera study will be the “Obsession” that brings
doom and destruction. We will listen to and discuss Salome, Pique Dame,
and Das Rheingold, exploring the desire, addiction, and lust that overcome
our key characters.
Leonore Baeumler is a US member who loves the opera.
Memory into Memoir
I: Getting Started [033] 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
A memoir is a collection of remembering, of bits and pieces from a life. It’s
a treasure only you can give to those who come after you. This writing workshop
will help you get started. You’ll be given helpful tips and skills as
you examine where you’ve been. Each session, we’ll spend time writing,
reading, and commenting on works in progress. This class is limited to 15.
Claudia Cohen is a US member and retired English teacher who
loves reading and writing.
* Pharmacy Student
Lectures [034] 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Students from the UMD School of Pharmacy will lecture on physical activity and
its benefits, bone heath, living with depression for seniors, and many more
topics. There will be time reserved for questions and answers. A list of topics
will be posted on the bulletin board.
Meg Little is a Senior Lab Service Coordinator at the UMD College
of Pharmacy. (Note 4 Weeks Only: March 27 and April 3, 10, 17)
Hiking [035] 9:30
– 11:30 am
Get your body moving and grooving! Explore the wonderful hiking trails Duluth
has to offer. The trails will be of average difficulty and are all within the
Duluth city limits.
Lou Anne Siefert and Judy Rudman are US members
who enjoy hiking.
Art Studio Water
Color [036] 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Join a group of creative people and experience the world of watercolor. Guest
artists and instructors will demonstrate and share their techniques. Learn about
watercolor washes, color harmony, designing a painting, and more! This class
is limited to 20 and meets in ABAH 135.
Ginny Comstock is a US member with a passion for painting.
* China [037] 9:30
– 11:30 a.m.
Through visual aids and guest speakers catch a glimpse of China and its history,
geography, and language. We will also explore Hong Kong and some of China’s
favorite tourist spots.
S. Jerome Elness is a retired Lutheran pastor and former missionary
in Taiwan and Hong Kong. (Note 4 Weeks Only: March 28 and Apr. 4,
11, 18)
* Hitler’s
Rise to Power [038] 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
This class will look inside the personal and political life of Adolph Hitler.
Learn about Hitler’s early life, and the personal characteristics that
enabled him to seize control of Germany. We will also explore the Weimar Republic,
its strengths and weaknesses, and the conditions in Germany from 1916-1932.
Phil Nast is a US member with an M.A. in History. (Note
4 Weeks Only: March 28 and April 4, 11, 18)
* War in the Pacific
[039] 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Learn about what our service men endured during the Korean War. We will be viewing
some of the great sea battles and landings in the Pacific.
John Collins is a US member who served in the Korean War and
has a wide range of interests. (Note 4 Weeks Only: April 25 and May 2, 9, 16)
* Samplings: 20th
Century U. S. Women Authors (040) 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
We will read and discuss the works of select U. S. women authors of the early
20th century in the hopes of whetting our appetite for more in-depth study during
“The Lazy, Hazy Days of Summer.”
Jane Maddy is a US member and UMD Associate Professor Emeritus.
(Note 4 Weeks Only: April 25 and May 2, 9, 16)
Exercise for Silver
Foxes [041] 8:00 – 8:45 a.m.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
This head to toe exercise class uses video tapes and is geared specifically
for seniors. The class meets three times per week in SpHC 33.
Kay Campbell is a US member and experienced Silver Fox.
More Exercise [042]
7:45 – 8:45 a.m.
Tuesday and Thursday
Get up, get out, and get a parking spot! This class will include seated exercises
for seniors put to platinum tunes. This class will take place in SpHC 33.
Cheryl Jonason is a US member.
Tai-Chi [043] 9:00
– 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday and Thursday
Tai-Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise. We will begin each class with warm up
exercises, and then practice the various Tai-Chi moves, adding new ones until
the group has mastered all 108. This class meets two times per week in SpHC
33.
Hilja Nast is a US member who has studied Tai-Chi for over
fifteen years.
NOTE! Online Registration is available
Please note: US staff will begin the early registration process on February 29. After study groups have been assigned, you will receive one statement that includes payment confirmation, study groups for which you are registered with the room assignments, and any study groups for which you are wait listed.
Books required for study groups will be available for purchase in the UMD Bookstore (first floor Kirby Student Center). You will find a bookcase marked University for Seniors with the titles clearly marked. Every effort will be made to keep the cost of books to $35 per study group or less. All members of a study group will be charged a fee if study group leaders provide a large volume of photocopied materials.