Time Schedule:
Constantin M. Behler
BIS 300
Bothell Campus
Introduction to advanced work in interdisciplinary studies centered on broadly based questions and problems. Stresses the skills necessary to engage in upper-division research and learning in the Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences Program.
Class description
This course serves as an introduction to the UWB Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences program. Its theme is based on the question, what it means to be human. We will not attempt to give an in-depth, or comprehensive answer to this daunting question, but rather take the theme as an occasion to explore a number of interesting lines of questioning, to study what some significant texts have to say about it, and to get a sense of how different academic disciplines approach it. We will use this theme to allow us to engage in a meaningful dialogue with each other, so as to explore what we can learn from each other and from critically reflecting together on texts that tackle this question. As an introduction to work in this program the course will stress reading, critical thinking, writing, group work, as well as an understanding of the culture of academic and interdisciplinary inquiry.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lectures, small group discussions, in-class writing exercises.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Students are expected to be well prepared for the class meetings, i.e., to have studied the assigned readings carefully and to participate actively in the class discussions.
Class participation, numerous in-class writing exercises, as well as library assignments will amount to 30% of the course grade. Students are also asked to write 3 short papers on the main texts of the course, one of which is a rewrite (20% each; 30% for the third paper). Writing assignments are generally due at the beginning of class and will be graded down .2 grade per 24 hours late. All writing assignments should be typed or word-processed, double spaced, and well organized. Students are also required to sign up for at least one 20-minute conferences with the instructor. I also encourage you to come visit me during my office hours, or to make arrangements for meeting at another time.
