Written by: Taylor Duff | Staff Writer

Spring term is upon us, and many of us have so many choices for courses offered in the new term. There are a few hidden courses that many don’t know about because they may be unconventional or not talked about. Here are some ideas if one is exploring their options for the Spring Term. 

A 210-Art for Health — This course investigates the known connections between various creative pursuits and their positive effects on health. The curriculum includes journaling and assessment of art-making activities and other habits, goal-setting for art-making as a physical exercise and good mental health habits and stress-reduction strategies through art-making.

BA 310-Consumer Behavior — This course investigates the conduct associated with finding, purchasing and using goods and services. Analysis and discussion are held regarding the behavioral concepts’ significance for both strategic and tactical marketing activities (e.g., personality, motivation, perception, cultural effects, decision-making process, satisfaction, learning, persuasion, etc.).

BI 425-Ornithology — This course examines the biology, ecology, diversity, behavior, anatomy, physiology and conservation of birds. The curriculum focuses on the ecology and avian evolutionary links. The focus of the lab will be on fieldwork techniques and bird research methodologies, as well as observations of both preserved and living species.

COM 410-Communication and Event Planning — Students will create, plan, organize and execute a significant event for the chosen organization in collaboration with a school or non-profit community group liaison. At the end of the term, students will turn in a portfolio showing the assignments they have completed.

CSE 469-“Hey U Up?”: Tech, Culture, and Maybe Love — This course examines dating apps and how they affect our perceptions of relationships, technology and culture. The objective is to gain a deeper understanding of how technology affects human connection, behavior and interactions as well as how human behavior. Interactions and ideologies influence the usage, development and production of technology. We will participate in scholarly and popular discussions about dating apps, interview users and examine apps to take into account issues with prejudice, security, and safety. Identity relationships using a rhizomatic approach to research, observation and analysis. The class will attempt to comprehend and make clear the hazards and advantages of dating app use, as well as how they are built and used. 

EXS 426-Sports and Exercise Nutrition — This course studies the relationship between nutrition and the demands of competitive sports and exercise. Particularly focuses on how different demographic groups have different needs and how diet and exercise relate to good health.

Contact the author at: tduff23@mail.wou.edu