Wednesday Session 2   

Many people love film noir but may not be able to define it. Despite millions of words written about it (or perhaps because of them!), there is widespread disagreement about the genre. The term was invented in France by the so-called new wave directors and critics who had studied American thriller or detective films made in the 1940s and 1950s, though it is not clear how many are really noir. This course will focus on films made between 1950-1981.

This course will examine one of the most fraught topics in American politics today: immigration. Despite the U.S.'s long history of acceptance and openness to foreign immigration, since 2000 concerns have spiked about the number and ethnicity of those being admitted. Throughout American history, immigration policy has evolved and reacted to often dramatic shifts in American society. Particular attention will be given to immigration laws in the 1920s, Lyndon Johnson’s landmark Immigration Act of 1965, and recent developments in problems and policies along U.S. borders.

This course aims to empower adults aged 50 and better with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world safely and confidently. Covering topics from internet basics to online security, participants will learn through lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities how to responsibly utilize the internet for education, communication, and entertainment.

Death may be the last thing we want to think about — our own, or that of a loved one — but no one gets out of here alive. Taking the time to learn about the practical, medical and legal aspects of dying helps us develop an approach to mortality. If we can integrate beliefs and traditions, determine personal preferences, and convey those feelings to our loved ones, we can take some control of this unavoidable event. Readings, films, guest speakers, and class discussions will help students develop a personal approach to their own mortality.

Independent films have been around since the birth of cinema. But what "independent" means has changed dramatically over time. Some independent film movements, such as "Poverty Row" films of the 1940s and drive-in movies of the 1950s are economically independent of Hollywood studios and are often made with less money and fewer resources than mainstream films. Other independent film movements, such as the "indiewood" blockbusters of the 1990s and early 2000s, are aesthetically independent and tell different kinds of stories in different ways than mainstream films. This course will survey a range of different approaches to independent filmmaking through lectures, screenings, and discussion.

Since 2008, white supremacist movements have become part of mainstream American politics and society. The result is growing racial hatred, violence, domestic terrorism, discrimination, and attacks on democracy. The instructor will lecture on the problem and solutions. The primary source is the new book, Out of Hiding: Extremist White Supremacy and How It Can Be Stopped, written by three of America’s experts on the topic. Class members are not required to purchase or read the book. We will have at least one guest speaker.

Why do you need to know about other generations when you represent only one? Gain a better understanding of communication preferences, work habits, behaviors, and interactions that can distinguish one generation from another. Many conflicts arise from the differences we fail to appreciate and respect between generations. This course takes participants on a journey to learn about those differences and how they impact lifestyles along with ways of engagement with others. Discover tips and best practices in this course to promote ways to connect and identify with different generations for better relationships.