Spring Preview Day: Sample lectures
Schedule of events for 2013: March 26, March 28 or April 16
8:30 a.m. Check-in and activities fair
9:00 a.m. Welcome address
9:30 a.m. Students - Sample class
9:30 a.m. Parent Session - The value of an Augustana education
10:30 a.m. Exceptional admissions essays or Interview prep 101
11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Campus Tour
12:15 p.m. Lunch (optional) and Admissions wrap-up
Sample Lectures
Bono, Beyonce and Beyond: Understanding Society through Popular Music
In this class we will explore the connections between popular music and issues facing our society such as poverty, racism and sexism. Is music really a powerful voice in these relationships? Are the performers really able to influence the conversation? By studying music we'll be examining the intersections of musicology, sociology, and anthropology.
Criminal Profiling — March 26 and April 16 only
An introduction to the psychological profiling of criminal offenders as an aid in their apprehension. This course examines the psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior, alternative methods of profiling, and the empirical evidence that supports and/or refutes the use of profiling in criminal investigation.
Food, Glorious Food (Chemistry) — March 28 only
Most of us are aware that processing makes foods less healthy. So, why is food "processed"? What happens to food during processing? What sorts of things are added to foods and why? How can we avoid such foods? These are questions we will explore in this class.
The Human Genome Project and You — March 26 and April 16 only
One of the greatest scientific events in the history of the world has taken place during our own lifetimes, and it's likely to impact all of us in many important ways. Indeed, it's predicted that all of us will have our genome sequenced at some point during our life. Come learn about what the Human Genome Project is, how it was accomplished, and what it means to you. Even if you're not a scientist, human genetics impacts you almost every day, and this lecture will be appropriate for those considering all majors.
Literature: New Visions, New Life — March 26 and April 16 only
What we experience and read shapes how we think. This brief lecture shows how language (including humor) and literature are about more than history and human nature but are also about perspective and truth. How does that new perspective impact us, and as the Russian novelist Tolstoy asks, "how, then, do we live?"
"Don't Worry, Be Happy: The Psychology of Happiness" — March 28 only
In this class, we will discuss psychological research on happiness. What is it? What makes people happy? How can we be happier? We will talk about how you can apply conclusions from psychological research to your life.
Power of Image in TV Advertising
This class explores the power of image in TV advertising. Students will examine the tools used in developing successful television advertisements by watching and discussing television commercials. The interactive session invites participation.
