2008 Woodie Awards
Lasallian Tradition reflected in Jan Term: 'Differences That Made a Difference'
Courses offer opportunities for creativity, service in busy schedules
Mark Freeman
Issue date: 9/19/06 Section: News
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Though still four months away, January Term, this staple of Saint Mary's College is already making its presence known. Students recently received booklets outlining Jan Term classes. One can also see flyers for travel courses that have sprung up around campus. While Jan Term has been a part of Saint Mary's culture for a long time, where students get the opportunity to broaden their curriculum as well as have a little bit more free time.
During Jan Term students only take one class during the month. "Most majors don't have room for electives," said Carole Swain, dean for mission & faculty development. She understands that most students take a full load of classes each semester, leaving little room for electives. One does not simply take a math or English course during Jan Term however. Courses like "Math Goes to Hollywood," taught by Professor Ben Davis, explain the role of math in modern culture, the course studies math in everything from Good Will Hunting to The Simpsons.
This is why Jan Term is important, it fosters creativity, both among students and faculty alike. Saint Mary's students are allowed to explore courses outside their major while professors can work in other disciplines, something that does not happen during the normal semester. Swain said, "the faculty is encouraged to participate in Jan Term," and that they "love to teach motivated students."
Many Jan Term classes are unique in that they feature a travel component. Currently, there are 14 different classes that take students either across America or out of the country. These courses seek to expose students to different cultures and experiences. Courses like "Bringing Back the Bayou: Rebuilding New Orleans" seek people that want to help Hurricane Katrina victims. Others like "Peace Is Every Step", let students explore the mind and practice "peaceful non-violent resistance" to "conflict in our world" at a Buddhist monastery. While freshmen are not allowed on the international trips, they can travel about the United States, so long as they attend the required pre-course meetings.
During Jan Term students only take one class during the month. "Most majors don't have room for electives," said Carole Swain, dean for mission & faculty development. She understands that most students take a full load of classes each semester, leaving little room for electives. One does not simply take a math or English course during Jan Term however. Courses like "Math Goes to Hollywood," taught by Professor Ben Davis, explain the role of math in modern culture, the course studies math in everything from Good Will Hunting to The Simpsons.
This is why Jan Term is important, it fosters creativity, both among students and faculty alike. Saint Mary's students are allowed to explore courses outside their major while professors can work in other disciplines, something that does not happen during the normal semester. Swain said, "the faculty is encouraged to participate in Jan Term," and that they "love to teach motivated students."
Many Jan Term classes are unique in that they feature a travel component. Currently, there are 14 different classes that take students either across America or out of the country. These courses seek to expose students to different cultures and experiences. Courses like "Bringing Back the Bayou: Rebuilding New Orleans" seek people that want to help Hurricane Katrina victims. Others like "Peace Is Every Step", let students explore the mind and practice "peaceful non-violent resistance" to "conflict in our world" at a Buddhist monastery. While freshmen are not allowed on the international trips, they can travel about the United States, so long as they attend the required pre-course meetings.