Green Nature, Human Nature

CRN: 30299
Note: This 12-credit program will meet from 6 to 9:50 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays and from 9 a.m. to 4:50 p.m. on five Saturdays (Apr. 3, 17, May 1, 15, 29). First class meets in SEM 2 D1107.

"Our ties to the green world are often subtle and unexpected." Charles A. Lewis

Humans have always been interested in plants and our lives are interwoven with plants in myriad ways. This program is intended for students with an interest in plants, including students who are starting to notice plants for the first time. Through a mix of readings, workshops, field trips and projects, we will be investigating four major questions:

• How do plants work?
• What do plants do in the environment?
• Why do plants matter to us?
• How can an understanding of plants help us create healthier, more sustainable communities?

This program has a strong writing component, designed to help students apply qualitative and creative modes of inquiry to contemporary issues. Students will create a portfolio of work, and ongoing revision of the pieces in the portfolio are expected. A plant journal will help develop skills in observation and in applying conceptual understanding of plant biology to those observations. A parallel series of writings called "plants and me" will help integrate ideas from program readings with observations and experiences, culminating in a final synthesis/reflection.