Past Course Offerings

• Fall 2024

  Natural Language Processing Tools for Personal, Creative, and Academic Use (BUS 198)
  In this course, you will learn how to effectively use natural language processing (NLP) tools. We will cover various applications of NLPs in the field of artificial intelligence with a focus on ChatGPT. Topics of class discussion include academic applications, prompt engineering, ethics/bias, and an in-depth exploration of NLP mechanics. Education will be facilitated primarily through in-class lectures with an emphasis on projects, readings, activities, and group discussions.

  Can We Trust the Health Industry? (EDUC 198)
  Healthcare, Inc. will examine socioeconomic aspects of the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries in terms of food. In this course, we will examine whether we can trust the information we’re given at face-value, or if we should be digging deeper for answers that pertain to our everyday living and habits. We will research and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of certain recommended foods. Is the information we receive about supporting our own well-being is based on evidence or influenced by corporations and their monetary goals? What information is being hidden from us, and are these reasons valid? Does sponsorship by certain companies lead to recommendations for their products over other potentially better options? Is the healthcare industry really just one big capitalistic entity?

  Understanding Disabilities and Inequities Among People with Disabilities in the Inland Empire (EDUC 198)
  Did you know that 11.5% of individuals in the Inland Empire live with a disability? This is higher than that of the state benchmark for California, which makes it all the more crucial to understand disabilities and the individuals who live with one (or several!). This course is intended to teach students about disabilities in four broad categories: 1.) physical, 2.) developmental, 3.) psychological, and 4.) sensory impaired. We will analyze the impact that these disabilities have on individuals who live with them. We will connect our findings and understandings to the context of the Inland Empire by discussing disability inequities that are prevalent among communities in the area and learn about resources that currently exist to combat those challenges.

  By taking this course, students will achieve a more thorough understanding of and compassion for individuals living with disabilitiesespecially those that are common yet often misunderstoodthrough in-class discussions, lectures, speaker recordings, student activities, academic readings. Students will ultimately be able to utilize their knowledge from the course to effectively advocate for equity for the disabled, develop a more compassionate mindset, and address stigmatized perspectives on disabilities.

  Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (EDUC 198)
  Are you interested in learning more about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Individuals with ASD often have unique and interesting perspectives on the world. This course is designed to introduce students to ASD by exploring topics related to relationships, advocacy, and appropriate support. It will introduce students to skills, strategies, and techniques to help promote educational and social success of ASD individuals in the home, work, and community settings. We will also discuss the impact of early intervention and strategies to support positive interactions, including how to foster relationships with ASD youth and adults.

  Disneyland Imagineer (EDUC 198)
  Have you ever wanted to create your own Disneyland ride? In this course, we will focus on understanding how Imagineers develop different Disney rides. In order to achieve this goal, this course will explore how Disneyland (located in Anaheim, CA) developed its rides through attraction layout and how the architecture, props, and decoration are engineered to reflect both an artistic concept as well as historical settings.

  The Future of War (POSC 190)
  The world is on fire and there is no water to spare. While American policymakers were distracted in the Middle East, state adversaries have studied the American way of war—and how to counter it. The Future of War aims to educate students on the evolving military tactics and strategies of the U.S., Russia, and China as they compete with each other for dominance. From the undercover Russian soldiers infiltrating Eastern Ukraine to the cat-and-mouse games played by the Chinese navy over the South China Sea, this course will cover the evolution of futuristic military doctrines such as Multi-Domain Operations and Hybrid Warfare. Walk into a world of deceit, cutting-edge technology, and cold, hard political decisions. Learning in this class will be assessed with role-playing exercises that put you in the driver’s seat of hypothetical military operations.

  International Relations as a Function of Spaceflight (POSC 190)
  Students will explore the fascinating world of spaceflight through a political lens. In the 1950s spaceflight emerged as a central component of the Cold War and has remained an important component of international relations. Students will examine and discuss how spaceflight has evolved from a bitterly competitive bilateral conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union, to a more collaborative endeavor, and what the future holds in spaceflight relations. Even through tense times like the recent war in Ukraine, Astronauts from all over the world have remained on board the International Space Station.

  Theater, Film and Digital Production: The Ultimate Maker Workshop (TFDP 190)
  Ever wanted to be a part of or create a short film or play from pre-production to its premiere? The Ultimate Maker Workshop is an R’Course designed to be an “introduction to the introduction” of production creation. Through studio learning, students will undergo the processes of developing a script, directing the piece, and acting out a final project. Topics include what makes storytelling effective, writing workshops, directing techniques, and making discoveries as an actor through mental and emotional exercises. With peer driven work, students will develop a basic, but concrete, understanding, of writing, directing, and acting. This R'Course will be taught through interactive learning and hands-on assessment. Work made in the class will be polished into a finished product even if the student has no prior knowledge of the industry or is studying in the field.

  From Concept to Creation: 3D Printing Workshop (NASC 198)
  “Creativity is intelligence having fun.” - Albert Einstein

  Creativity isn't a luxury; it's a critical asset, empowering individuals and organizations to navigate challenges, drive innovation, and succeed in an increasingly dynamic environment. This hands-on course is designed to take you on a journey from basic to advanced additive manufacturing techniques. Throughout the course, students will explore the 3D printing process, from designing models using TinkerCAD software to printing their own designs for practical use. Emphasis will be placed on unleashing your personal creativity as you embark on exciting projects that demonstrate the versatility of 3D printing technology.

  Immigrant Perspectives in Southern California: Navigating Challenges and Exploring Experiences (EDUC 198)
  Have you ever wondered about the diverse landscape of Latinx immigrant experiences in Southern California? Curious about the laws, challenges, and triumphs that shape their lives? This course will attempt to answer these complex, multifaceted questions by exploring the historical context, legal frameworks, and policy landscapes that shape the Latinx immigrant experience in the region. Whether it is by analyzing the “Zoot Suit Riot” or the difference in experiences between Los Angeles and San Diego, students will gain real-world insights. Join us in this transformative exploration of and let's embark on a collective journey towards understanding, empathy, and actionable change.

  Pediatric Health Inequities in the Inland Empire (EDUC 198)
  According to Loma Linda University Health, 44% of single mothers with children in the Inland Empire live below the poverty line. An epidemiology and program evaluation of Riverside County revealed that children in African-American and Hispanic communities experienced higher rates of obesity, respiratory disease, and infant mortality compared to other population centers across California.

  This course will cover the impact of health inequities on common childhood conditions as well as their influence on developing health burdens. These will be explored through case studies, current events, and discussion of personal and peer experiences. We will discuss how health disparities impact pediatric oral health, hearing loss, appendectomies, asthma, and more. We will also explore the role health inequalities have played in the obesity and mental health epidemics. Utilizing lectures, medical literature, guest speakers, in-class activities, and long-term projects, we hope to educate students about these disparities and inform them of ways they can work towards addressing them. Our goal is to create a student body that is equipped to provide informed and compassionate care to the next generation.

  Public Health in Inland Southern California (EDUC 198)
  As students at UCR, it is important to understand current public health disparities in the surrounding region. In this R’Course, we will explore the definition and applications of public health, focusing particularly on populations in the Inland Empire, which encompasses San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The primary focus of this course will be understanding social determinants of health and how they impact underserved and vulnerable populations such as historically marginalized communities, immigrants, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Finally, we will explore the multidimensionality of health disparities as well as the current resources available throughout the region. This course will help give students a foundation for continued public health education.

  
  Introduction to Sports Medicine and Diagnosing Injuries (NASC 198)
  “You’re never going to learn something as profoundly as when it’s purely out of curiosity.”
  ― Christopher Nolan

  This introductory course offers students a comprehensive overview of sports medicine, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries. It is designed for students interested in fields such as physical therapy, athletic training, exercise science, and other health-related professions. Through a combination of a 50-minute discussion session each week, discussion board posts, and video studies, students will gain a solid foundation in the principles and practices that underpin sports medicine. Join us in this adventure where the sports industry goes from the screen to your hands.

  The Science of Studying: The Biological Basis of Learning (NASC 198)
  Understanding the science behind learning equips students with the tools necessary to succeed in their studies. This course invites students to embark on a transformative academic journey, where they can confidently navigate the complexities of their studies with a deeper comprehension of the brain's role in the learning process. The course begins with discussing the formation of memories and how the brain adapts during learning. As the course progresses, students will learn how to implement this knowledge through practical study techniques and effective time management skills. These methods include active learning, improving comprehension, and note-taking skills.

  Love in Greek Mythology (LING 198)
  This course will explore the captivating realm of love in Greek mythology through an interdisciplinary approach that delves into the complex and often tumultuous relationships among gods, heroes, and mortals. From epic tales of passion to tragic love stories, this course will provide students with an enriched understanding of the multifaceted nature of love in the ancient Greek world.

  The curriculum will focus on key mythological pairs, including the legendary bond between Achilles and Patroclus, the tumultuous marriage of Zeus and Hera, the poignant love story of Eurydice and Orpheus, and more. Through close analysis of primary sources, students will gain insight into the cultural, social, and religious significance of these relationships. Students will engage in critical discussions and develop analytical skills to interpret and contextualize the complexities of love as portrayed in Greek mythology. By the end of the quarter, students will not only have a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of ancient Greek love stories, but also gain insights into the enduring relevance of these narratives in understanding human relationships and emotions.

• Spring 2024

  Can We Trust The Health Industry? (EDUC198)

  Healthcare, Inc. will examine socioeconomic aspects of the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries in terms of food. In this course, we will examine whether we can trust the information we’re given at face-value, or if we should be digging deeper for answers that pertain to our everyday living and habits. We will research and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of certain recommended foods. Is the information we receive about supporting our own well-being is based on evidence or influenced by corporations and their monetary goals? What information is being hidden from us, and are these reasons valid? Does sponsorship by certain companies lead to recommendations for their products over other potentially better options? Is the healthcare industry really just one big capitalistic entity?

   

  Fan Studies/Fanfiction and Psychology (PSYC 198)

  Hello and welcome to “Fan Studies and Psychology!” This course will provide a broad overview of fandom groups and fan-based subculture communities through a psychological lens. Some of the fandoms we will study include the gaming community, Dungeons and Dragons (DnD), anime fandom, furry fandom, Star Wars, Star Trek, My Little Pony, and other fan-based communities. Students who identify with fandoms and subcultures (or none!) are all welcome to talk about your experiences and knowledge of these fan communities!

   

  Specific course topics will include introduction to fandoms and subcultures, fandom behaviors and activities, identity development in fandoms, toxicity of fandoms, mainstreaming of fandoms, content creations and fandoms, original characters, and social support and group belonging. Students will complete weekly writing assignments, participate in a midterm debate, and deliver a final presentation in order to understand the psychology of fan culture and fan communities.

   

  International Relations as a Function of Spaceflight (POSC 190)

  Students will explore the fascinating world of spaceflight through a political lens. In the 1950s spaceflight emerged as a central component of the Cold War and has remained an important component of international relations. Students will examine and discuss how spaceflight has evolved from a bitterly competitive bilateral conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union, to a more collaborative endeavor, and what the future holds in spaceflight relations. Even through tense times like the recent war in Ukraine, Astronauts from all over the world have remained on board the International Space Station.

   

  Understanding Disabilities and Inequities Among People with Disabilities in the Inland Empire (EDUC 198)

  Did you know that 11.5% of individuals in the Inland Empire live with a disability? This is higher than that of the state benchmark for California, which makes it all the more crucial to understand disabilities and the individuals who live with one (or several!). This course is intended to teach students about disabilities in four broad categories: 1.) physical, 2.) developmental, 3.) psychological, and 4.) sensory impaired. We will analyze the impact that these disabilities have on individuals who live with them. We will connect our findings and understandings to the context of the Inland Empire by discussing disability inequities that are prevalent among communities in the area and learn about resources that currently exist to combat those challenges.

   

  By taking this course, students will achieve a more thorough understanding of and compassion for individuals living with disabilities-especially those that are common yet often misunderstood-through in-class discussions, lectures, speaker recordings, student activities, academic readings. Students will ultimately be able to utilize their knowledge from the course to effectively advocate for equity for the disabled, develop a more compassionate mindset, and address stigmatized perspectives on disabilities.

   

  Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (EDUC 198)

  Are you interested in learning more about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Individuals with ASD often have unique and interesting perspectives on the world. This course is designed to introduce students to ASD by exploring topics related to relationships, advocacy, and appropriate support. It will introduce students to skills, strategies, and techniques to help promote educational and social success of ASD individuals in the home, work, and community settings. We will also discuss the impact of early intervention and strategies to support positive interactions, including how to foster relationships with ASD youth and adults.

   

  The Assassin Brotherhood in History (HIST 198)

  During the medieval era, a group of Persian warriors bound by religion and a code of brotherhood brought a reign of terror over the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. These men and their leader, the old man of the mountain, created many castles in Iran and Syria to spread their creed of assassins in order to defeat Europeans in Jerusalem, crush Mongol invaders and weaken Sunni leaders. A powerful secret society of Shia Nazari Muslims. At the end of the term, you will understand the importance and significance of the Assassin’s Creed and its contributions to the wars in the middle east like the Crusades, fall of the Seljuk Empire, invasion of the Mongols and others. Students will be able to analyze the role of the order and understand important historical events and why the secret order was involved and how it affected the politics of the region.

   

  Disneyland Imagineer (EDUC 198)

  Have you ever wanted to create your own Disneyland ride? In this course, we will focus on understanding how Imagineers develop different Disney rides. In order to achieve this goal, this course will explore how Disneyland (located in Anaheim, CA) developed its rides through attraction layout and how the architecture, props, and decoration are engineered to reflect both an artistic concept as well as historical settings.

   

  Natural Language Processing Tools for Personal, Creative, and Academic Use (BUS 198)

  In this course, you will learn how to effectively use natural language processing (NLP) tools. We will cover various applications of NLPs in the field of artificial intelligence with a focus on ChatGPT. Topics of class discussion include academic applications, prompt engineering, ethics/bias, and an in-depth exploration of NLP mechanics. Education will be facilitated primarily through in-class lectures with an emphasis on projects, readings, activities, and group discussions.

   

  An R^2 Course: Unlocking the Basics of Coding in R (NASC 198)

  In an increasingly digital world, the possibilities of programming are endless! This course explores a hidden gem in programming, R Markdown, and its ability to create personalized dynamic reports and presentations. As we build reports, students will develop their skills in writing code, analyzing data, and visualizing data using the R programming language. Students will leave the course with a self-made report template that can be utilized for future classes or projects, along with a solid foundation in programming that can be readily expanded upon.

   

  Emerging Cancer Treatments in the 21st Century (NASC 198)

  This course is a hybrid between a workshop and seminar-style class that, through a series of crash-course lessons, will provide a comprehensive overview of various cancer treatments that are currently used in the medical field as well as those that are still in the early stages of experimentation. It is suitable for both life sciences and non-life sciences majors and is designed to be accessible to those who have little to no background in cancer biology but are interested in learning about the latest advances in cancer treatments. The course will cover chemotherapy, radiation therapy, viral therapy, anti-cancer vaccines, stem cell therapy, immunotherapy, and gene editing after providing a simplified foundational explanation of cancer etiology. Students will interact with course material through reading and analyzing the required course readings as well as participating in user-controlled simulations of lesson topics. The end goal of this course is for students to be able to understand the “why” and the “how” of several existing and emerging cancer treatments as well as be able to relate that understanding to their own lives. They will also develop skills pertaining to the interpretation and analysis of empirical and review articles that are translatable across disciplines as well as in non-academic life.

   

  Media and the Mind: A Deep Dive on Mental Health Through Media (PSYC 198)

  From song lyrics to book excerpts, the correlation between mind and media is a fascinating topic central to critical ideas about mental health, self-growth, and human development. This course delves into the intersection of media and the human mind, addressing the impact of different forms of media on mental health. Through this course, students will learn about the effects that media identity has on the brain, misrepresentation of mental health, and the ethical implications of false propaganda and media bias. Each week, a specific form of media (e.g., social media, music, literature) and its positive and negative psychological intricacies will be explored. By engaging in group discussions, creative projects, and case studies, students will gain valuable insights into the importance of mental health and identity in an ever-developing and media-centered society.

   

  Theater, Film and Digital Production: The Ultimate Maker Workshop (TFDP 190)

  Ever wanted to be a part of or create a short film or play from pre-production to its premiere? The Ultimate Maker Workshop is an R’Course designed to be an “introduction to the introduction” of production creation. Through studio learning, students will undergo the processes of developing a script, directing the piece, and acting out a final project. Topics include what makes storytelling effective, writing workshops, directing techniques, and making discoveries as an actor through mental and emotional exercises. With peer driven work, students will develop a basic, but concrete, understanding, of writing, directing, and acting. This R'Course will be taught through interactive learning and hands-on assessment. Work made in the class will be polished into a finished product even if the student has no prior knowledge of the industry or is studying in the field.

   

  Displacement, Dodger Stadium and the Red Scare (HIST 198)

  The goal of this course is to introduce students to the history of Dodger Stadium in the Los Angeles area of Chavez Ravine, where Mexican American communities thrived until plans were made to create public housing on the site. In the face of McCarthyism, the housing project was eventually foiled by city officials and politicians who declared the plan had “Socialist tendencies.” The housing project a bust, a new plan was set in motion: recruiting a baseball team who would construct a stadium on the former Chavez Ravine public housing site.

   

  Meanwhile, families living in the area would not be easily swayed: refusal to leave, lawsuits and protests would ensue. Despite the protests, all the families would be removed and construction of Dodger Stadium began in a resentful community. Fully aware of this resentment, the Dodgers were on a quest to win back the Mexican American community they had angered. This quest would culminate in “Fernandomania,” the Dodgers successful attempt to win back a large portion of the Mexican American community.

   

  Our Objects and Us: Weapons in Ancient Greece and the Contemporary U.S. (HIST 198)

  What would someone think about you if they only looked at your material belongings? The objects we choose to associate ourselves with tell a story! But they do not passively reflect our selves—instead, our objects help shape our realities and our relationships with other people. To understand how this phenomenon unfolds—and how pervasive it has been for humankind since ancient times—this course will explore a comparative case study of weapons: one of the few common features of human societies across time, space, and culture.

   

  By examining the various cultural meanings ascribed to weapons by ancient Greek and contemporary American societies, students will recognize the interconnectedness of material objects with identities and social realities, and the commonalities between the ancient and modern human experience. Through discussion, reflection, and a final project, students will engage with academic and pop culture media to compare ancient and contemporary weapon symbolism while reflecting on their own relationships with objects.

   

  Healthcare Disparities in Black, Hispanic & Latino Communities (EDUC 198)

  In this course, our main focus will be the healthcare disparities faced by Black, Hispanic, and Latino communities. We will have in meaningful conversations concerning the stereotypes and obstacles of accessing healthcare and how it can be difficult for these communities to trust the healthcare system.

   

  Research conducted by Harvard's School of Public Health reveals that Black children have a 500% higher asthma mortality rate than White children. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 22% of Hispanic and Latino Americans reported having a mental illness, compared to 23.9% of non-Hispanic Whites. However, only 36% of Hispanic and Latino Americans received mental health services, compared to 52% of non-Hispanic Whites. This raises concerns about the quality of our healthcare system as it fails to provide adequate care to marginalized communities.

  The course aims to introduce students to healthcare disparities and equip them with skills to identify these disparities and advocate for a more inclusive healthcare system that serves Black, Hispanic, and Latino communities.

   

  Pediatric Health Inequities in the Inland Empire (EDUC 198)

  According to Loma Linda University Health, 44% of single mothers with children in the Inland Empire live below the poverty line. An epidemiology and program evaluation of Riverside County revealed that children in African-American and Hispanic communities experienced higher rates of obesity, respiratory disease, and infant mortality compared to other population centers across California.

   

  This course will cover the impact of health inequities on common childhood conditions as well as their influence on developing health burdens. These will be explored through case studies, current events, and discussion of personal and peer experiences. We will discuss how health disparities impact pediatric oral health, hearing loss, appendectomies, asthma, and more. We will also explore the role health inequalities have played in the obesity and mental health epidemics. Utilizing lectures, medical literature, guest speakers, in-class activities, and long-term projects, we hope to educate students about these disparities and inform them of ways they can work towards addressing them. Our goal is to create a student body that is equipped to provide informed and compassionate care to the next generation.

   

  Through the Lens: Exploring Astronomy from Antiquity to Present (NASC 198)

  This course will take us through a journey of exploration from the ancient models of our universe to the contemporary model of today. Through this adventure, students will investigate different observational methods that have aided us in observing celestial bodies and their motions, leading to the cosmological model in its current state. Students will study different observational methods like geometrical observations and telescopes to understand how observations in astrophysics work.

   

  Students will attain a qualitative understanding of physical laws and mathematical concepts to understand how detectors in telescopes work and realize the breakthrough of historical discoveries. Through a series of readings and written assignments, students will understand the basics of how scientists observe the cosmos and its intricacies. By completing this course, students will be capable of presenting the important concepts of observation techniques and the kind of observations those techniques helped observe.

   

  Psychology of Note-Taking (PSYC 198)

  Students often forget their notes as quickly as they write them and never look at them again. Occasionally, a viral trend might promise an A+ if you include a 5-minute break, a 10-question review, or a 100-word summary, but they don’t know your courses, goals, and experiences. Maybe you love to handwrite, not type, your notes, or maybe you want to produce, not consume, new ideas. As researchers in Dr. Ditta’s TEACH Lab where we study the cognition of note taking, we created this course as a fun, low-stakes environment where students can experiment with different note-taking and study techniques to design a system tailored to their needs. Students will evaluate common note-taking advice and current scientific research, then receive feedback as they apply these practices towards their own academic objectives in, outside, and beyond the class.

   

  Building Sustainable Happiness: Application of Positive Psychology Strategies in Daily Life (PSYC 198)

  How can we harness our day-to-day experiences to boost our happiness? The purpose of this course is to design and build your personalized “kit” of positive psychology exercises. Through engaging in discussions, short readings, and videos, students will learn the scientific basis of 6 psychological concepts (e.g., humor, awe, and savoring) and a series of corresponding exercises (e.g., laughing at yourself, mental traveling, and gratitude journaling). Ultimately, students will evaluate and identify several strategies that they find most interesting and transform them into a self-care skillset that can be applied in the future in the face of adversity and stress in life.

   

  Unlocking Wellness: The Biochemistry of Mental Health and Dietary Influence (NASC 198)

  This course will explore the intricate relationship between biochemistry and mental health, focusing on the impact of diet on the well-being of the mind. Students will explore the biochemical aspects of common mental illnesses and highlight the significant impact diet plays. Throughout the course, students will gain insights into essential nutrients, inflammation, and the potential of special diets to optimize overall wellbeing. Through engaging discussions, case studies, podcasts, videos and practical applications, students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the vital interplay among biochemistry, diet, and mental health, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

   

  The Science of Studying: The Biological Basis of Learning (NASC 198)

  Understanding the science behind learning equips students with the tools necessary to succeed in their studies. This course invites students to embark on a transformative academic journey, where they can confidently navigate the complexities of their studies with a deeper comprehension of the brain's role in the learning process. The course begins with discussing the formation of memories and how the brain adapts during learning. As the course progresses, students will learn how to implement this knowledge through practical study techniques and effective time management skills. These methods include active learning, improving comprehension, and note-taking skills.

• Winter 2024

  Can We Trust The Health Industry? (EDUC 198)
  Healthcare, Inc. will examine socioeconomic aspects of the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries in terms of food. In this course, we will examine whether we can trust the information we’re given at face-value, or if we should be digging deeper for answers that pertain to our everyday living and habits. We will research and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of certain recommended foods. Is the information we receive about supporting our own well-being is based on evidence or influenced by corporations and their monetary goals? What information is being hidden from us, and are these reasons valid? Does sponsorship by certain companies lead to recommendations for their products over other potentially better options? Is the healthcare industry really just one big capitalistic entity?

  Health Justice: Examining the Biases & Restrictions on Marginalized Patients in Our Healthcare System (EDUC 198)
  There lies a great intersectionality in the force that oppresses and restricts marginalized communities, the medical community, and the healthcare system as a whole. This R’Course will explore the intersectional challenges of healthcare outcomes at the patient, professional, and systematic level. We will cover the historical, cultural, political, and economic factors that contribute to healthcare disparities among marginalized groups and the impact these disparities have on health outcomes as well as how health policy, medical culture, and stigma has affected the livelihood and quality of care of medical professionals. This course will also examine best practices in healthcare equity, such as health policy advocacy and healthcare provider education and training. Students will engage in discussions, case studies, and interactive activities to gain a deeper understanding of these complex issues and develop strategies for improving health equity.

  Public Health in Inland Southern California (EDUC 198)
  Public Health is essential to the overall well-being of individuals, communities, and societies. In this R’course, we will explore the definition and the applications of public health in the Inland Empire. Our focus will be on the understanding of how social determinants of health impact the health outcomes of vulnerable and underserved populations in the region. We will explore the effect of race, immigration, homelessness, and all other underserved communities in Health inequalities and disparities in our healthcare system. During this course, students will engage in group discussions, analyze case studies, and create their own health infographics. Through these activities, students will gain a better understanding of the key principles and concepts of public health and social determinants, as well as the various approaches taken to address health disparities.

  Understanding Disabilities and Inequities Among People with Disabilities in the Inland Empire (EDUC 198)
  Did you know that 11.5% of individuals in the Inland Empire live with a disability? This is higher than that of the state benchmark for California, which makes it all the more crucial to understand disabilities and the individuals who live with one (or several!). This course is intended to teach students about disabilities in four broad categories: 1.) physical, 2.) developmental, 3.) psychological, and 4.) sensory impaired. We will analyze the impact that these disabilities have on individuals who live with them. We will connect our findings and understandings to the context of the Inland Empire by discussing disability inequities that are prevalent among communities in the area and learn about resources that currently exist to combat those challenges.

  By taking this course, students will achieve a more thorough understanding of and compassion for individuals living with disabilitiesespecially those that are common yet often misunderstoodthrough in-class discussions, lectures, speaker recordings, student activities, academic readings. Students will ultimately be able to utilize their knowledge from the course to effectively advocate for equity for the disabled, develop a more compassionate mindset, and address stigmatized perspectives on disabilities.
  
  International Relations as a Function of Spaceflight (POSC 190)
  Students will explore the fascinating world of spaceflight through a political lens. In the 1950s spaceflight emerged as a central component of the Cold War and has remained an important component of international relations. Students will examine and discuss how spaceflight has evolved from a bitterly competitive bilateral conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union, to a more collaborative endeavor, and what the future holds in spaceflight relations. Even through tense times like the recent war in Ukraine, Astronauts from all over the world have
  remained on board the International Space Station.
  
  Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (EDUC 198)
  Are you interested in learning more about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Individuals with ASD often have unique and interesting perspectives on the world. This course is designed to introduce students to ASD by exploring topics related to relationships, advocacy, and appropriate support. It will introduce students to skills, strategies, and techniques to help promote educational and social success of ASD individuals in the home, work, and community settings. We will also discuss the impact of early intervention and strategies to support positive interactions, including how to foster relationships with ASD youth and adults.
  
  The Future of War (POSC 190)
  The world is on fire and there is no water to spare. While American policymakers were distracted in the Middle East, state adversaries have studied the American way of war—and how to counter it. The Future of War aims to educate students on the evolving military tactics and strategies of the U.S., Russia, and China as they compete with each other for dominance. From the undercover Russian soldiers infiltrating Eastern Ukraine to the cat-and-mouse games played by the Chinese navy over the South China Sea, this course will cover the evolution of futuristic military doctrines such as Multi-Domain Operations and Hybrid Warfare. Walk into a world of deceit, cutting-edge technology, and cold, hard political decisions. Learning in this class will be assessed with role-playing exercises that put you in the driver’s seat of hypothetical military operations.
  
  The Assassin Brotherhood in History (HIST 198)
  During the medieval era, a group of Persian warriors bound by religion and a code of brotherhood brought a reign of terror over the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. These men and their leader, the old man of the mountain, created many castles in Iran and Syria to spread their creed of assassins in order to defeat Europeans in Jerusalem, crush Mongol invaders and weaken Sunni leaders. A powerful secret society of Shia Nazari Muslims. At the end of the term, you will understand the importance and significance of the Assassin’s Creed and its contributions to the wars in the middle east like the Crusades, fall of the Seljuk Empire, invasion of the Mongols and others. Students will be able to analyze the role of the order and understand important historical events and why the secret order was involved and how it affected the politics of the region.
  
  Disneyland Imagineer (EDUC 198)
  Have you ever wanted to create your own Disneyland ride? In this course, we will focus on understanding how Imagineers develop different Disney rides. In order to achieve this goal, this course will explore how Disneyland (located in Anaheim, CA) developed its rides through attraction layout and how the architecture, props, and decoration are engineered to reflect both an artistic concept as well as historical settings.
  
  Natural Language Processing Tools for Personal, Creative, and Academic Use (BUS 198)
  In this course, you will learn how to effectively use natural language processing (NLP) tools. We will cover various applications of NLPs in the field of artificial intelligence with a focus on ChatGPT. Topics of class discussion include academic applications, prompt engineering, ethics/bias, and an in-depth exploration of NLP mechanics. Education will be facilitated primarily through in-class lectures with an emphasis on projects, readings, activities, and g