Section Choices: Fresh Focus Fall 2006

Creative Problem Solving (section 01)
Professor Mike Rulison
Goslin 100
Most of us are linear thinkers when it comes to solving problems, whether they are math problems, logic problems, social problems, decision-making situations…….you name it. Often, this linear problem solving approach is appropriate. But, enlarging your toolbox of thinking strategies enables you to approach problems in unique, creative, and fruitful ways. You will find this skill valuable no matter the area of application.

Music, Television, Films and Their Impact on Culture and Society (section 02)
Professor Jim Bohart
Hearst 114
Students will study and discuss the impact of music, television and films on culture and society.  A variety of music, television programs, and films representing contrasting viewpoints will be presented.  Readings and research using the internet will be assigned.
SECTION CLOSED

¡Sí Amigo!:  Getting to Know the Spanish-Speaking World (section 03)
Professor Mario Chandler
Hearst 210
This course will provide students with a thorough introduction to the diverse communities of Spanish-speaking peoples as well as the unique worlds that they occupy around the globe.  From Spain, to Africa, to the Americas (North and South) there are more than 400 million people that claim Spanish as a native language.  Students will learn about many Hispanic or “Latino” communities and their connections to our society and to the world.  Students will also have opportunities to interact directly with Atlanta’s Hispanic community through local visits and organized trips. 

Leonardo da Vinci:  Math and the Mona Lisa (section 04)*
Professor John Nardo
Goslin 108
Dan Brown’s publishing phenomenon The Da Vinci Code has reminded millions of readers of Leonardo da Vinci’s place in western civilization.  In addition to investigating this great thinker’s contributions to art, students will learn how to “think like Leonardo da Vinci.”  Students will also explore da Vinci’s contributions to mathematics and science.  Along the way, experienced, successful Oglethorpe students and faculty will help new students acclimate to OU and to learn the study skills needed to thrive here.  Lastly, there will be a field trip to Atlanta’s High Museum of Art and one other Atlanta outing as voted by the class.  Benvenuto ad Oglethorpe!
*This course is offered at 11:30a-12:15p for University Singers and other interested students on a space-available basis.

Political Leadership in Action (section 05)
Professor Joe Knippenberg
Hearst 201
Liberal education is intended to prepare students for lives of thoughtful and responsible citizenship.  In this course, we will take advantage of our time and location (a major city and state capital during an election year) to examine “up close and personal” political leaders in Georgia.  Students will spend a few hours volunteering for the political campaign of their choice, attend at least one campaign event, and meet with candidates and office-holders.

The Atlanta Media Scene (section 06)
Professor Seema Shrikhande
Robinson 104
Atlanta is home to a variety of media organizations, best known among them being CNN and TBS.  This course will introduce students to a range of media organizations—newspapers, radio and television—in the city.  We will consider their history, content and competitive strategy.  Class will consist of a discussion of readings and exercises, field trips and guest speakers from the city’s media scene.

Biology, Medicine and yOU (section 08)
Professor Dan Schadler
Goslin 108
Are you planning to attend medical school?  Are you seeking a career in healthcare?  Are you looking forward to working in the biological sciences?  If your answer is “yes” to any of these, you want this section of Fresh Focus.  We will target strategies for gaining admission to medical school, graduate school, professional training programs and employment opportunities.  Career exploration, support and ideas from upper-class students and experts in the field, and plenty of discussions on achieving success will be featured.
SECTION CLOSED    

Now that I’m here what do I do? Learning about Oglethorpe and the Atlanta Business Community (section 09)
Professor Chris Benton
Lupton 203
This section is designed to introduce a student to Oglethorpe University and the surrounding Atlanta business community. We will advise the student on academic and social issues he or she may face while at Oglethorpe.  Also we will introduce students to several different businesses in the Atlanta area so they can be made aware of internships and employment opportunities in both profit and non-profit firms that can prepare them for career goals after graduation.  

Critical and Creative Thinking (section 11)
Professor Vicky Weiss
Transfer Students Only!
Hearst 203
What are the techniques and strategies that help you get the most out of college? This course will explore how we can learn from each other and refine best practices for college success.  Topics will include critical reading, creative problem solving, study skills, time management, choosing courses and majors, and college life.

Critical and Creative Thinking (section 13)
Professor Lisa Littlefield
Transfer Students Only!
Hearst 212
What are the techniques and strategies that help you get the most out of college? This course will explore how we can learn from each other and refine best practices for college success.  Topics will include critical reading, creative problem solving, study skills, time management, choosing courses and majors, and college life.

Success and the Student Athlete (section 14)
Professor Lynn Guhde
Hearst 103
What extra responsibilities do you have as an athlete and scholar?  What expectations do professors have of athletes?  What happens when you miss a class and/or exam because of a game?  What GPA must I maintain to stay on the team?  We will focus on succeeding in the college classroom while also succeeding on the field.  We'll discuss the keys to success as they apply to all college students such as effective note taking, study skills and preparing for exams.  Additionally, we will look at skills needed by athletes such as time management and stress management.  You’ve been accepted.  You’re ready to play.  Let’s hit the ground running!
SECTION CLOSED

Live Theatre Appreciation  (section 16)
Professor Deborah Merola
Conant Rehearsal Room
Includes: Thursday night performances, plus a $20 lab fee.
In this active approach to learning different approaches to viewing, thinking, and writing about performance, students will access the thriving Atlanta theatre scene. We will attend five different productions: The House of Yes and Georgia Shakespeare’s Othello on campus, plus selected shows from 7 Stages, Actor’s Express, Horizon, PushPush, or Synchronicity Performance Group. Thursdays will be group theatre viewing night, with actor talk backs. We also will visit the famous Center for Puppetry Arts and welcome theatre artists into our lively discussion.  

Social Psychology Goes to the Movies (section 17)
Professor Mandy Gewin
Hearst 208
Are you curious about why individuals act the way they do in social settings?  Have you ever wondered about phenomena such as conformity, interpersonal attraction, or prejudice?  Are you a film buff?  If you answered "yes" to any or all of these questions, then this section of Fresh Focus is for you.  This course will focus on uncovering key social psychology principles in contemporary film.  We will watch and discuss selected films in order to understand the ways in which this branch of psychology extends well beyond the classroom. 
SECTION CLOSED

The Siege of Atlanta  (section 18)
Professor Bruce Hetherington
Lupton 200
Focus on General William T. Sherman’s 1864 invasion of Georgia and ultimate capture of Atlanta from both a Northern and Southern perspective, the events that made invasion of Georgia possible, and the economics of the Confederacy.  Field trips to local battlefields, such as Kennesaw Mountain and Pickett’s Mill, and local attractions such as the Cyclorama will be included in the course requirements.