Science, Technology & Medicine   

Since the brain plays such a central role in controlling the body, it has been a longstanding subject of research. With advances in magnetic resonance imaging and DNA technology, much new information on the brain is becoming available. After a brief explanation of terminology, this course will look at some of the new ideas on brain structure and function. Topics will include brain evolution, functional mapping and neural networks, the role of neuroglia cells, neural stem cells and some ideas on facial recognition and spatial orientation. Although there has been a lot of research on neurological disorders, we will not have time in this class to discuss diseases.

This course is designed for people already concerned about climate change, who want to learn more, and will consider mitigating the impact of climate change on our planet and ourselves. The course covers problems, basic science, and equity issues. Participants will review a powerful simulation tool and a wide range of climate change solutions. Participants will learn how to communicate with others and join in taking action.

This course will be held at the Allegheny Observatory in Riverview Park. Each class will include both a presentation and discussion about a person or a discovery at the observatory and a short tour of a portion of the building. At the end of the five classes, we will have explored the entire building and looked at how John and Phoebe Brashear, Samuel Langley, and James Keeler impacted both the field of astronomy and the city of Pittsburgh. We will use the 13" telescope to view sunspots and the moon (weather permitting). Please Note: This historic building is only partially handicapped accessible. Some of the tours will require steps. Parking is free.

Since the release of ChatGPT in 2022, industry and education publications have heralded it as a tool that will, for better or worse, transform the way people work and learn. In this course, which is designed for ChatGPT novices, members will learn about how this text-based generative artificial intelligence tool functions and how to use it effectively. We will discuss the ethical implications of using generative AI. Participants will have opportunities to practice using prompt engineering strategies and engage ChatGPT in creative tasks like writing poems or playing games.