Twofer Courses

What do these have in common? They are all conditions that society has deemed troubling. How does this happen? Who gets to decide what is a problem and what isn’t? In this course, we will explore the role of claims makers, including the influence of the media. Together, we will investigate why certain claims about societal problems rise to prominence, while others linger in obscurity. Ultimately, we will work to propose meaningful solutions to major social problems. (TTh 10–11:20 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.–12:50 p.m.)

Speaking in public is not the end of the world and learning how religion expresses the ultimate in hopes, values, beliefs, and behaviors helps us better understand others. (TTh 10–11:20 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.–12:50 p.m.)

Comedy is an art. Although in life the oddest things can make us laugh, it is often the work of study and subtlety that make the best comedy performances and performers. Comedy films are an American favorite but are often overlooked in favor of dramas when it comes to academic study. Laugh Your Ass Off invites students to master the formal research and academic writing process while studying the art of comedic film. Earn six credits—three for Composition II and three for Intro to Film, with one set of assignments! Join Jay Geller and Kate Midday in their newly revisioned Twofer, and spend your semester in tears! And you’ll laugh, too! (MW 11:30 a.m.–12:50 p.m. and 1–2:20 p.m.)

How accurately does Hollywood portray those with mental illness? Are these “real” depictions or are they fictional, misleading, and potentially dangerous? Join us for a thorough and thoughtful examination of the various types of mental illness, and an exploration of popular films that depict the mentally ill. (MW 11:30 a.m.–12:50 p.m. and 1–2:20 p.m.)

Talking Dirty, which combines Human Sexuality and Introduction to Ethics, focuses primarily on developing critical thinking skills and investigating cultural truths in addition to building interdisciplinary awareness. This course provides an opportunity to discuss topics central to the ethics of human sexuality. Using scientific rigor, conceptual clarity, and philosophical insight, we will address questions such as: What constitutes rape? What is a woman? Should prostitution be a crime? Is monogamy a virtue? What is the moral status of a fetus? (MW 11:30 a.m.–12:50 p.m. and 1–2:20 p.m.)

This learning community will examine what it means to be American, both as an individual and as a society, through the lens of American music and American literature. (TTh 10–11:20 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.–12:50 p.m.)