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Other than Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin is arguably the most important figure in the history of science. While he was not the first scientist to put forth a theory of evolution, it was his specific evolutionary theory that succeeded in becoming the basis of modern biology. Discover how Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection has provided the most cogent explanation for the origins of all forms of life great and small. Together, we’ll learn why his theory has had (and continues to have) such a controversial impact on science and society.
Format: 90% Lecture, 10% Q&A
Do you enjoy sharing stories from your past? Have you considered writing it down? Everyone has a story to tell, and there’s no better way to do so than through a short but personal medium such as a memoir. Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, this hands-on workshop will help you develop a plan for the beginning stages of writing your personal musings. Together, we’ll cover how to brainstorm ideas, organize those thoughts into a workable outline, and develop a writing plan for a basic but solid direction to begin sharing your amazing stories.
Format: 40% Lecture, 40% Interactive discussion, 20% Activity
October 5 - October 26
For millennia, people have wondered at the mystery of bird migration. Where are they going? Why? And how do they know how to get there? Did you know some birds migrate by walking? By swimming? And what effect is climate change having on them? In this wide-ranging and informative slide show, Phil Pryde, SDSU professor emeritus who has enjoyed observing migratory birds on all seven continents, will discuss these questions and many others. These little world travelers always amaze us, so join us for this fascinating exploration into the marvels of bird migration.
Format: 75% Lecture, 25% Interactive discussion
Is self compassion selfish? On the contrary, it’s the highest form of self care. MSC (Mindfulness Self Compassion) combines the skills of mindfulness and self-compassion, providing a powerful tool for emotional resilience. Mindfulness is the first step in emotional healing—being able to turn toward and acknowledge our difficult thoughts and feelings (such as inadequacy, sadness, anger, confusion) with a spirit of openness and curiosity. Self-compassion involves responding to these difficult thoughts and feelings with kindness, sympathy, and understanding so that we soothe and comfort ourselves when we’re hurting. Research has shown that self-compassion greatly enhances emotional wellbeing.
Format: 60 % Lecture; 20% Question and Answer; 20% Activity
What is the San Andreas fault? Why is it here? What can it do to us when it moves? Why is it not moving? What kinds of plate boundaries do we have in the western US? In this lecture, you'll learn why California, and the San Diego region specifically, is tectonically active and in what kind of danger we’re in as a result. We’ll also explore the ways that we can manage the natural hazards that we face in California.
Format: 80% Lecture, 20% Interactive discussion
While online meeting platforms have been used by businesses for years, the pandemic created an explosion of demand from the general public for Zoom. This webinar will show you the settings, the terminology, and the best practices for using Zoom as a participant and as a meeting organizer. In addition to the basics of joining a meeting, scheduling a meeting, and meeting controls, you’ll learn about virtual backgrounds, filters and stickers, Gallery View, and screen sharing. You won’t feel like the clumsy one in the Zoom anymore!
Format: Format: 50% Demonstration, 20% Lecture, 30% Hands-on Activity