Sequence Spotlights
Dr. Gilles and Dr. Velez Ortiz
You saw the professors' description of the sequence. So how do students describe it? We asked groups of this year's students to take a shot at their own titles and descriptions of "The Sound of Ethics." Here's one version:
Title: "Listening to the Stars"
Description: "In this course, students will delve into philosophical conversations revolving around leadership and listening as a method of communication. This eccentric and introspective discussion-based course encourages free thought and ethical listening. The first semester of this 2 part course will focus on the roots of communication in ancient Greece and ancient Egypt. During this time you’ll focus on writing as an art. Students will also learn to read patiently and take time to stargaze. During the second semester, students will perfect the craft of deepening their worldview by listening to active leaders in the community as they discuss how they’ve become heads in their fields. From this, students become leaders, and leaders will become stars."
Okay, here's another:
Title: "So You Think You Can Listen?"
Description: "The objective of this course is to improve your listening skills over the course of a year. The first semester you will get a base knowledge of listening as well as learning how ancient civilizations listened. The second semester you will get an insight on how professionals listen in their career fields. This could include business professionals, artists, and detectives, to name a few. The second semester has more of a writing focus but it will enhance your prior listening skills. This sequence allows close relationships to develop because of the sense of community and the structure of the class. This includes small group activities, classes potlucks, no tests, and inclusive discussions. So, do you think you can listen?"
To learn more about Professor Vélez Ortiz, check out these recent stories from Grand Valley Magazine about her and her guide dog, Professor Chad. To learn more about Professor Gilles and his interest in a sports phenomenon that for decades nobody listened to, check out this 2018 story from The Guardian.
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