Friday 29 June 2012

Classes That Are Fun? I Thought I Was in University?!

So, here you are. At University. An institution of higher education and research. A community of scholars, and teachers. A place where the courses are prestigious, hard, and boring... wait... rewind. That is not all completely true.

There are classes here at York University that you can take that are interesting, (maybe) easier, and have less paperwork. I know, I know your thinking "What?! How could this be?!""Fun course at a University? Unheard of!", but with thousands of different courses that you can take as an elective, it makes sense that there are some crazy courses out there!

I've asked some of my friends what courses they took that were fun, and interesting, and I have also looked through the course timetables, and have compiled a list of some potential "cool" courses you can take while your here! (Courses with a "*" beside it note a first-year level course).


Books and Bookmaking in the 21st Century (AP/WRITE 3720 6.0)
- Perfect for those interested in reading, books, and how it all comes to be!
- This class looks at the role of books now and in the future
- How publishers affect the content, appearance, and reception of the books that are published


American Sign Language: Level 1 Intro to Sign Language Studies (AP/ASL 1000 6.0)*
- Yup, a class where you learn sign language- found out about it this summer!
- Activities in this class focus on the movement of hands, mouth, and other body parts to represent aspects of the American Sign Language (ASL)
- There is also ASL Level 2 and ASL Level 3 if you wish to continue learning more!


Sport in Canadian Society (GL/CDNS 2612 3.00)
- Calling all athletes (or even those interested!)
- A class where you examine the cultural, social, economic, and political trends the influenced the evolution of sport in Canada
- Also explores how Canada has been shaped by sports and physical activity


Elementary Modern Standard Chinese (AP/CH 1000 6.00)*
- Don't know about you, but I've always been interested in different languages, and been amused at how others communicate in a way I can not understand!
- A class for those who are English speaking and have no knowledge in the language of Cantonese
- Similar "elementary level" courses in different languages are also offered if you were interested in another language!

Porn Studies: An Introduction to Cultures of Sexual Representation (AP/SXST 3604 3.0)
- Now I know what your thinking, but no you don't just watch porn in this class
- This class explores debates, texts, and moments in this time in history surrounding porn

Minds, Brains, and Machines (AP/COGS 2160 3.0)
- Domo Arigato Mr. Roboto! (this is awkward for those not familiar with the song...)
                        
- This course explores questions such as "What is artificial intelligence?" and "Is it possible that we will someday create machines that think?"

Retailing, Shopping, Society, and Space (AP/GEOG 3140 3.0)
- No, unfortunately you don't get marks for finding the best deals!
- This class does explore shopping behavior, process of retail location, and the geographic, economic, and social issues associated with retail

Guitar for Non- Majors (FA/MUSI 2012 3.0)
- Those who never got the chance to learn the guitar, here's your chance now!
- Learn the basic techniques, introductory theory, etc.
- No previous experience required
- Other instruments are also available for non-majors
- Lindsey took Caribbean Ensemble, and Gospel Choir (yupp, another 2 cool courses). Feel free to ask her about her experiences with these classes!

Life Beyond Earth (SC/NATS 1880 6.0)*
-X -Files anyone?
                       
- Yes, this class essentially explores aliens!
- Explores various factors required for life to exist beyond Earth, both life that may have evolved elsewhere, and what would be necessary for humans to live beyond Earth!


Sexuality, Social Practices, and Modernity (AP/SOCI 4075 3.0)
- This course explores sexuality in the context of society processes and practices, and critically examines a number of major contemporary social theories concerning sexuality

Acting for Non-Majors ( FA/THEA 1520 3.0)*
- For those who have a passion for acting, and wish to pursue it further, but aren't in Theatre have no fear!
- This course introduces students to to concepts like breathing, voice work, improvisation, monologues, and other basic techniques associated with acting

So, there you have it. Keep in mind this was only a small list of the hundreds other courses that are offered! Hope you all enjoyed it and keep in mind of these courses (and more) when enrolling throughout your University years! Why not have fun with your courses, and take something more "out there", and not commonly associated as a University course.


Note: Course codes may change.


P.S. Courses are still courses. Although they may be more interesting and seem more easy than other courses, you still have to put in the work and try your best! There is no such thing as an "easy A". 

Until next time I'll be Yorking Around, 

5 comments:

  1. Hey! I'm currently a high school student, but i've been looking for interesting courses that i'd like to take when i'm in university. I just wanted to let you know that I really liked your post! I've come to realize how many interesting courses university offers. There really is something for everyone! I really liked a couple on your list, and I wanted to thank you for writing this post. :)

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  2. Hi, I was just wondering if you know any social science or humanities courses that are interesting.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi, I was just wondering if you know any social science or humanities courses that are interesting.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SOSC 1801: Health Controversies. It's an amazing class which opens up your mind to viewing situations around the world in a different light. HUMA 1105: Myth & Imagination in Ancient Greece and Rome. Yupp, it can't be more straight forward than the title. You learn about ancient myths and the heroic tales of characters like Odysseus and the gods.

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