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From classic Hollywood musicals to contemporary dance films, together we will unravel the nuanced relationship between movement, storytelling, and the evolution of American identity. Participants will gain a deep understanding of how dance on film becomes a dynamic mirror, reflecting and refracting the cultural nuances and social dynamics of its time. From the energetic Charleston of the Roaring Twenties to the rebellious moves of the 1960s, you will gain a deeper understanding of how dance on the silver screen has mirrored and influenced the ever-evolving social fabric of America.
April 19 - May 3
Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of classic Hollywood cinema where dance takes center stage in storytelling. From the timeless grace of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to the infectious energy of the Nicholas Brothers we'll explore the rich artistry and history of dance in film. Each week, we'll delve into iconic dance sequences, uncovering the magic behind the choreography and the era's cultural influences. With an expert instructor with two decades of experience teaching older adults, we’ll even do a sampling of adaptable movement and boost physical fitness, coordination, and memory while reveling in the nostalgia of Hollywood's finest moments.
February 12 - February 26
This course is only available to Osher members.
Far from being “stuff that happens in a lab” or a science rooted in balancing equations and watching solutions bubble and change color, chemistry happens inside us and all around us all the time: the real world is absolutely filled with chemistry, and it’s relevant and fascinating. In this course, we’ll look at the real world chemistry of pharmaceuticals and poisons (and the fine line that divides them), the science of dietary supplements and how they’re regulated, and how alchemy gave way to modern chemistry, and then the dawn of the nuclear age changed everything.
February 20 - March 26
This course is only available to Osher members.
While the polarization of politics in recent years has put fuel on the “fake news” fire, the concept of conflicting truths is not new. Dating back to the Renaissance and philosopher Francis Bacon understanding the psychological phenomenon later to be coined as “confirmation bias” our consumption of news continues to evolve. Therefore, so must our lens of reporting transparency. Step into the world of a broadcast journalist to understand what it takes to convey facts and spot shortcomings on TV. Understand first-hand the joys and challenges of standing and reporting in front of major sporting events like an NFL playoff game or MLB spring training to capture the scene for viewers. Or, expand your writing vocabulary in politics discussing first-hand interviews with governors and Congressional senators. Feel more comfortable walking in the health news realm as we all make the post-pandemic world more informed when doctors and nurses share their insights. Understand social media in a new light as storytellers grow their own voices and those they have the responsibility to spotlight as powerful pieces attempt to not die in an echo chamber.
February 24 - March 30
This course is only available to Osher members.
"Native Ground" will introduce students to the depth of Native American history in what is now the United States, as well as its diversity. From this foundation, the course will move to consider the implications of the invasion from Europe, the founding of European colonies, and the eventual (not inevitable) establishment of the United States and its expansion across Native North America. The course will emphasize the resilience of Indigenous communities in the face of relentless colonial pressure. Along the way, students can expect to learn about several related topics, including the historiography of Native America and the image of the "Indian" in the American mind.
February 19 - March 25
Who was Joan of Arc? Was she a hero, a saint, a witch, a martyr, a patriot, a mentally ill person, or a visionary? Although we do not know much about her, except for the information gathered during her trial, she is part of the Western imagination as a woman who challenged traditions and stereotypes and changed the course of history during her short life. We will learn about her life and deeds and will discuss the meaning of her actions and her significance as a symbol of women’s heroism as well as the reactions to and interpretations of her and her behaviors through the centuries.
February 13 - February 13
Would you like to see (and touch!) unique and rare comic books, including the oldest comic published in the United States? Then join us for a journey through SDSU’s Special Collections and University Archives Comic Arts Collection! We’ll explore comics that spark social engagement through topics such as race, gender, ableness, age, and gender in autobiographical, historical, and superhero comics; take a look at pop culture ephemera from our archival collections; and peek into the history of the founding of Comic-Con.
February 21 - February 21
Have you ever wondered how popular music evolves? Are you a music listener who wants to understand more about this evolution and to learn techniques that will make your listening – whether to rock, jazz, classical, or world music – more informed? Based on the music of the Beatles, this course will provide participants an opportunity to travel the path of John, Paul, George, and Ringo from the late 1950s to 1970 as you learn the many ways the music of the Beatles challenged existing expectations in popular music and also served as among the most influential music of the 20th century.
April 17 - April 24
This course will cover the period after the Civil War between December 1863 and March 1877. The goal of the period was to reconstruct the nation after the Civil War. It also meant to reintegrate the former Southern States back into the US. The course will address the social, political, and economic impact slavery had on the nation.
March 21 - March 28
Curious about the amazing temples of Angkor in Cambodia, the stupa of Borobudur on the island of Java, Siamese Buddhas, the arts of Sri Lanka and Myanmar? Planning a visit to one of these countries or simply wish to better understand their religions and cultures? Look no further! This course explores the manifold arts of Southeast Asia. Join Art historian Douglas Barker on a wondrous two-week aesthetic journey, exploring Hindu and Buddhist temples.
April 9 - April 11