Humanities

Dennis Knepp
509.793.2190
DennisK@bigbend.edu

Humanities courses may be taken as part of the Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree. These courses may be used toward the Humanities Breadth requirement or for Specified or General Elective credit. Students seeking Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree should refer to the catalog section “Degrees & Certificates” for a detailed description of the degree, its program outcomes, and courses that will satisfy degree requirements.

Humanities involve studying human culture and asking questions about the human condition and existence: how we deal the fragility of life, what the nature of truth is, the purpose and experience of human emotions, the nature of human drives, how to live in a world with other humans, how to be better humans, and how our experiences as humans shape us. In essence, these courses help us understand more about what it means to be a human being.

Since programs differ at each college, students should consult program outlines published by the college or university to which they intend to transfer. The following recommended courses prepare students for most baccalaureate institutions. Students should prepare their quarterly schedules with the assistance of an advisor knowledgeable in this transfer area.

Courses

HUM 102: Kick Ass Women in Popular Culture

Credits 5

This course helps students gain critical literacy skills that will make them more effective and inclusive readers and thinkers. We will watch film and television shows that challenge the damsel in distress stereotype by featuring kick-ass women who can save themselves and/or others using violence. We will read what scholarly and popular critics argue about these film and television shows to unpack controversies related to the “strong, independent woman” ideal. Students will learn relevant media literacy vocabulary, analyze scenes from what we watch together, and gain historical knowledge of how the representation of women has changed over the last century. They will apply this knowledge to journal assignments, reading responses, personal reflections, and multi-media assignments including a poster presentation. Please note: the film and television programs we watch are for mature audiences and include graphic violence and sexual themes.

HUM 108: Introduction to Gender Studies

Credits 5
This course introduces students to major issues, concepts, and basic terms central to the field of Gender Studies. Throughout the quarter, we will critically engage with social, cultural and historical ideas about what it means to be female and male, how these ideas shape everyday life experiences, and what consequences this has on relationships, work, and the structuring of a society. Emphasis will include the multiple ways that sex and gender interact with race, class, sexuality, nationality, and other social identities.

HUM 110: Greek Mythology

Credits 5
Greek Mythology is the basis for understanding Western literature, art, history and even some symbolism on U.S. currency. More than just entertainment, the ancient myths discuss our relationship to the divine, the nature of power, and the importance of heroics. This course will cover the pantheon of Greek gods and the literary styles of the epic, tragedy, and comedy.

HUM 205: Diversity in French- and German-Language Cinema

Credits 5

HUM 205 Diversity in French- and German-Language Cinema is a survey course that examines French- and German-Language films featuring the experiences of immigrants, women, people living with disabilities and other historically marginalized groups. Students will critically engage with the way that these subjects are portrayed on screen, comparing and contrasting the films’ subjects with their own viewing and life experiences.

HUM 214: Diversity Issues: Race, Class and Gender

Credits 5
This cultural diversity studies course examines and investigates culture, behavior, values, identity, stereotypes, person and societal perceptions, and the cultural construction of reality using a literature-based and experientially based cognitive curriculum. This class will explore multicultural society with a mind toward improving students’ understanding of their own cultures and the cultures that surround them.

HUM 220: Diversity in Education

Credits 5

This course examines and discusses the historical and current perspectives on diversity and inclusion and the impact of systemic societal influences on children’s development, learning and school experiences. Strategies for developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate anti-bias curriculum and teaching methods will be created. Ideas for approaches that promote inclusive and anti-racist classroom communities will be generated. Includes self-reflection on the influence of the teachers’ own culture and life experiences on teaching and interactions with children and families. Classroom materials and environments will be evaluated and modified to promote anti-bias and anti-racist learning opportunities for all children.