Current 360° Offerings, Fall 2013
Contemplative Traditions
This 360 cluster comprises three classes that share an interest in contemplation or mindfulness in theory and practice. The course brings together historical, cultural, psychological and religious perspectives in its study of mindful and contemplative traditions. Mindfulness has long been an important aspect of both Buddhist and Christian monastic practice. With its recent introduction as a key component of Western therapeutic modalities for remediating psychological difficulties or coping with stress, mindfulness has also become a central focus of much new psychological research and theory. Students and faculty will travel to mindful and monastic communities in Japan and the US.
Exhibiting Modern Art
This 2-unit 360 cluster runs over the course of the 2013-2014 academic year. In the fall, the History of Art course will study the history of modern art from the Armory Show of 1913 to the present, through the lens of a significant collection of modern American art on loan to the College. The spring Museum Studies course will shift to the implementation of theory in the multidisciplinary practice of mounting and programming an exhibition of the collection in Canaday Library. The 360 will consider differences in addressing academy and community as audiences, and bring together theoretical and practical aspects of art history, art criticism, art exhibition, and art education.
Perspectives on Sustainability: Disasters and Rebuilding in Japan
This 360 focuses on Japan’s response to natural and man-made disasters and the impact of those responses on environmental and sustainability issues. The incorporation of analytical perspectives from architecture/urban studies, literature/film, and art will allow students to understand the important relationship between of culture and context in shaping these efforts. In addition to the coursework, the cluster provides students with volunteer, intern, and research opportunities in the Tohoku area.
To Protect the Health of the Public
This 360 has as its goal a deepened understanding of public health. To do so, we offer three courses that focus on policy, history, culture, the place and power of government, and public and personal responsibility. An overarching theme is the need to support public health infrastructure. The themes related to public policy and personal responsibility that are present in all courses will be the keystones for three additional discussion sessions for all students and professors.
