Bridgewater State University   

Well-behaved women rarely make history—and the women in this course definitely did not behave! From pirate queen Grace O'Malley to poet Anne Sexton, and from pop icon Madonna to modern women under the public microscope like Karen Read, we'll explore how women who challenge expectations are labeled, judged, and sometimes punished.

Through short readings, media, storytelling, and lively discussion, we’ll connect past and present and ask: what has changed, and what hasn’t? Come ready to think, share, and maybe stir up a little trouble. An optional visit to Salem or a related local site may be suggested for those interested.

Have you always wanted to play the guitar to accompany yourself singing or is it just something you have always wanted to try? Then this introduction to Guitar course is for you! We will cover all of the basic fundamentals needed to learn to play the guitar, whether it is on your own, or with formal lessons. Discussions will include how to care for your instrument, how to tune, and how to play with proper posture and correct technique. Both chords and melody will be covered, and we will play familiar songs as a means for learning. Also, regardless of each individuals pace all songs can be arranged for all abilities. This course will focus on learning how to play using chord diagrams and tablature background. Traditional music notation will be introduced and explained but will not be the focus. Students will need: a guitar in playable condition, guitar picks, a clip-on tuner, or app, a guitar strap is optional but recommended. Folders, chord charts, reference materials and handouts of song sheets for the lessons will be provided by the instructor. Students of all backgrounds are welcome and those that have already taken the class come as a review, and to continue working on the songs we did, but with more advanced skills.

This two-part series explains how, with Churchill’s support, the British efforts at destroying the Nazi tyranny of World War Two, resulted in the victory of the Allies in 1945. In particular, we examine the formation of a very secret organization, the Special Operations Executive, SOE, and some examples of specific operations that took place in occupied Europe. This involved intelligence gathering and sabotage that gave support to the resistance in those occupied countries.

Part 1 explains the history of the intelligence services in Britain and the formation of the Special Operations Executive and Part 2 covers several of the various operations that took place during SOE’s existence.

David Barrett lived in London during the London Blitz and was 6 years old when World War Two finished.

Curious about Mahjong and ready to learn a game that combines strategy, skill, and social fun? Join Audrey Maw and her team of instructors from 4 Blondes Mahjong for this beginner-friendly introduction to American Mahjong. No prior experience is required. Participants will learn the fundamentals of the game, including tiles, rules, basic strategies, and game play in a welcoming and supportive environment. By the end of the course, you'll have the confidence and foundation needed to join a Mahjong table anywhere. All materials will be provided.

Continue your Spanish language journey in this engaging 5th section of our Introductory Spanish course for adults! Designed for those who have completed Sections 1-4 or are a returning student, or have some basic familiarity with the language, this class builds on foundational skills while emphasizing practical communication and cultural understanding. In this course, you will expand your vocabulary and add to grammar learned in previous session through interactive lessons and real-life scenarios. Key topics include: expanding everyday vocabulary - using subject pronouns and describing people, enhancing listening and speaking skills through conversations, and exploring culture and traditions of the diverse Spanish/Hispanic world. Join us for a fun and friendly class as you gain confidence in your Spanish abilities and develop a deeper appreciation for the language and its cultures.

In this course, students will build upon fundamental watercolor techniques. Reviewing techniques such as wet on wet, blending and color mixing from watercolor 1 and using them to create masterpieces.  Bring your enthusiasm and creativity!  This class will be a bit more in depth than Watercolor 1, but beginners are always welcome. 

Supplies needed:   Pencil, eraser, paper towels, 2-3 round brushes size 4,8,12 mixing palette, 2 water jars (can be mason jars, plastic cups, anything to hold water), a small spray bottle, masking tape.  Watercolor paper arches/ cold press/ 140lb small pad.  As far as paints go I recommend Daniel Smith extra fine watercolor- set of 6, essential 5ml tubes and an additional burnt sienna tube.  You can find most of these on amazon, dickblick, Jerry’s Artarama, Michaels, and sometimes Walmart.  If you are signed up with a friend you can share paper and paints, but you’ll want your own pencil, brushes and palette.  The paper is important because the techniques will not work well on inexpensive watercolor paper.  

For Watercolor part 2 please bring an additional agree brush size 18-20, masking fluid (Daniel Smith is a good one) and a masking fluid eraser.

This beginner-level tap dancing course is designed specifically for senior adult learners who are interested in exploring movement, music, and rhythm in a supportive, low-pressure environment. No prior dance experience is required. The class will introduce foundational tap techniques, basic steps, and simple combinations while emphasizing safety, accessibility, and enjoyment. Participants will learn at a comfortable pace, with modifications and adaptations offered to accommodate a range of physical abilities and mobility levels. The course will conclude with an optional performance opportunity for those who wish to share their progress.  Classes will incorporate warm-ups, rhythm exercises, and short choreographed routines set to a variety of music styles.   

Step into the world of ballet in this welcoming, beginner-friendly class. Each session introduces low-impact ballet movements through barre and floor work to improve balance, flexibility, and coordination. Alongside movement, participants will explore the stories, music, and history behind famous ballets, deepening their appreciation for this timeless art form. With a focus on creativity, connection, and enjoyment, this class provides a supportive environment where you can move at your own pace, express yourself, and build community. The course will conclude with an optional performance opportunity for those who wish to share their progress. Movers of all experience levels are welcome, and adaptive options will be incorporated into every session to ensure accessibility for all.

Learn and discuss the US involvement in space exploration from its beginnings to how far we are going in the future. The class will discuss the technical details of the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions. We remember seeing these missions; but did not understand why, I will discuss the why and reasoning behind all these missions. What were these missions to accomplish and their final goals? Show the science and engineering advancements we have made in the Shuttle and International Space Station programs. When will we return to the Moon and how far are we willing to travel into space? Is SPACEX the answer? The big question, “are we alone?” will be discussed. Math and science backgrounds are not required.

Discover China’s rich everyday wisdom—from the soothing warmth of ginger tea to the quiet grace of calligraphy. In six relaxed sessions designed for senior learners, you’ll uncover how food harmonizes your body, why families honor ancestors, how ancient philosophies shape daily life, and why gentle Ba Duan Jin movements (soft, slow Qigong) can calm both body and mind. You’ll try simple brushstrokes, learn easy seated exercises, share cherished memories, and witness how tradition thrives in modern China. No tests, no grades—just vivid stories, compelling images, friendly conversation, and small hands-on discoveries. Join us to connect with new friends, practice gentle, mindful movements, and explore timeless ideas that may even transform how you see your life’s unfolding seasons.

This course will focus on six critical national issues that will be prominent during Fall, 2026, especially during the mid-term election and the results of the election on the composition of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Those six issues are the national debt burden, employment and unemployment, energy use and energy policy, the role of religion in national politics, the influence of money and donors in the electoral process, and the status and direction of immigration and immigration policy. During these separate issue sections, the emphasis will be on defining the issue, the impact of the issue on national politics and national life, and the way the political parties and the government respond to the issue. Since the course will run into mid-December, the course will seek to analyze how the results of the mid-term election will likely influence how each of these issues will be affected by a new House and Senate.