Online Learning   

No previous Tai Chi experience is necessary. All the movements are slow and gentle, and no martial arts applications will be taught or practiced in this study group. These methods may help lessen body pain, correct spinal misalignment, cultivate a sense of internal energy, and rest the mind. Participants can wear comfortable roomy or stretchy clothing and some soft tai chi shoes or socks to wear on their feet.

A scintillating review of current themes in the media will be discussed in each class. Class members present a topic, discuss it, then open the floor for discussion and debate. Poetry, literature, scientific discovery, and educational progress are examples of the issues addressed. Special guests are welcome to present.

How can we be sure humans evolved from a branch of the great apes? If we evolved from apes, why are there still apes? How does one species give rise to another? Is evolution still happening? What is the "theory of evolution by natural selection," where did it come from, and how sure are scientists about it? In this class, we will look at the evidence scientists use to understand evolution, speciation, and the variety of life. In addition to examining ancient evolution, we will explore some of the ways humans have continued to evolve since taking our modern form, all as part of the fascinating story of how life came to be on our planet as it is today.

Join us for "Fortunato Film School" where ASU film professor Joe Fortunato will screen, discuss, and provide live commentary on the Steven Spielberg classic E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, often cited as the one of the most beloved films of all time. We will begin with a brief introduction on the background and making of the film. Then, we will screen the film together with live commentary provided, giving you insights into the filmmaking process, fun facts, and some guidance on how to read a film creatively. After the film, we will discuss what we've learned and debate if it lives up to its great film reputation (and even discuss what that designation means in the subjective world of creative art).

This class is for people who have studied some French in the past. We study basic French grammar, usage, pronunciation, and vocabulary. The focus is communicating with others in written and spoken French.

The class is reading Le Chien Jaune by Georges Simonet. The class reads aloud, followed by translation into English, with some discussion of vocabulary, grammar, and the plot.

On parle français dans cette classe, sans traduction (si nous avons de la chance). On doit avoir l'envie d'entendre et de parler mieux le français, et peut-être un jour le parler couramment. Il n’y a pas de textes.

This class will be a refresher or training on essential skills for instructors. We'll talk about pedagogy and best practices, and might do some (voluntary!) demonstrations of various skills and practices. You'll walk away with some practical tools to use in the classroom and some concrete training in the craft of leading an engaging class session. This class is for anyone who already teaches OLLI classes, who might want to teach in the future, or who just has an interest in the topic.

This introductory class will provide an overview of Hinduism, the religion of India that originated about 3000 years ago. It will include a brief history about the origin of Hinduism and the contributions to it from different sources, the religion of Hinduism and its many components, the different philosophies that underpin the religious practices, including the non-dualism of Vedanta; and the interactions between Hinduism and Judaism, Christianity, Islam. Also covered in the class are the rituals, practices, customs and festivals related to Hinduism.

If you can't draw, know that it's not your fault. You weren't taught properly. First published in 1979, Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain applied brain science to drawing instruction. Using her teaching techniques to bypass our internal barriers and connect us to our innate ability to draw, we learn we can do more than we believed. If you want to start exploring art classes but still draw like a child, start here. Stick-figure level drawing skill is perfect and welcome.

Knitting with others is a wonderful learning environment. This class is designed to give knitters who have mastered the basic stitches of knit and purl a chance to work on a project of their choosing while we chat and share ideas online with other knitters. All levels of ability are welcome! Gale contributes to the class by offering tips and suggestions for patterns, yarn, and tools based on her years of knitting experience.

Representatives from various local news organizations will join us to discuss their processes and the challenges and opportunities for local news agencies. Bring your questions!

Classical music has been with us for centuries. While there are many modern and contemporary styles of music that have developed, some composers now specialize in film scores. Specifically, many of the Hollywood composers in the 20th century were European classical music composers who met the film industry's need for orchestral music. This class will present the evolution of films and film music. We will discuss the various styles of this genre and the composers who are responsible. This multimedia presentation will familiarize you with films and film scores. It will be both informative and entertaining.

Each week the class will read poems by an individual poet, a collection of poems on a specific subject, or a collection of poems in a specific style. A wide range of poets and poetry will be presented, from classic to contemporary. We will discuss poetry from the perspective that the poet creates the work but the reader activates it.

This class will discuss favorite science fiction authors, their books, and the human, political, and scientific issues they raise. The books and authors will be chosen by Sydney from suggestions by participants. This is a fun, free-flowing gathering of science fiction enthusiasts. Please join us and bring your ideas, insights, and suspension of disbelief.

Join us for a collaborative read of the last, and perhaps least well-known or understood, of Shakespeare's major tragedies. You'll be encouraged, but not required, to join in the discussion. This class is for beginners and Shakespeare veterans alike. You will want your own copy of the play, but any good standard edition will do. Email Jack (jdayer@ucdavis.edu) for guidance.

To understand the arts is to know the mind and spirit of the people. In this class, we will explore Japan's artistic history through its profound and elegant creations. We will explore Japan's best contributions to the visual arts from prehistory, the earliest Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and sculpture and paintings until the time of the last feudal ruler. In so many creative fields, Japan's artistry has greatly influenced artists in our modern world. It is important to identify and credit those absorbed influences.

Start your Tuesday with music and songs. Join us in a fun, informal sing-along. Bring your voices and/or musical instruments. The operative word is "fun." If you like music, you will like this class. All levels welcome!

Signed into law in 1965, the Older Americans Act aims to support older Americans living independently in their homes and communities. Join us for an engaging overview of the Older Americans Act, designed for individuals unfamiliar with the law and its services. This class will provide insights into the bill, discussing key provisions, benefits, and services offered under the Act. Participants will understand how the law is applied in Arizona, how the Act impacts their lives, and the resources available to them.

It was a time of radical change, a time of violence. England was under siege internally and externally. Being on the wrong side, politically or religiously, could result in torture and death. Into this confusing and disordered world strode a young married man who had left his home of Stratford-upon-Avon to attempt his hand at playwriting for the London stage. His name was William Shakespeare. Join us for a discussion of the TV show Will, described as "Shakespeare on sex, drugs, and rock and roll."