Class Analysis

Looking back, it looks like I haven't explained how classes are different here versus my past UIS classes, which gives me something to post about!

I am taking four courses here, but I go to Uni more than four times a week. Most of the classes that I take here have at least two sections: a lecture/screening portion and a seminar portion. The lecture or screening portion are as they sound... the lecturer lectures for the majority of the class time while the students take down notes. Screenings (for my film classes) are where the instructors will give a brief intro on the film you are going to watch and you watch the film(s). Seminars are where you meet in smaller groups and are more discussion-based.

How my schedule works:

Monday I have my American Animation History Screening, which depending on the day we may watch one long feature length film (currently Disney oldies) or various clips/short animated films. Tuesdays I have my American Animation History and Neuropsychology lectures. (Neuropsychology only has lectures, and no seminars/screenings). Wednesday I have my Anatomy of an Auteur lecture/screening which is where we watch all Hitchcock films. For my Anatomy of an Auteur class, it's one long session of both lecture and screening, rather than breaking them apart and meeting on campus twice. Thursday, I have my Children's Brit Lit Lecture, my seminar for my American Animation History, followed by another seminar for my Anatomy of an Auteur class. And finally, Friday I have my final class for the week which is my Children's Brit Lit seminar.

So, for the most part classes aren't TOO different from what I've experienced at UIS. The class sizes are a little bigger... Lectures are different as students do not contribute to the lesson, they just listen to the lecturer and take notes. Seminars are shorter versions of what UIS classes feel like, wherein students talk and contribute a lot more. Another adjustment I am working with is the lack of busy work! All I have is readings assigned and TONS of it! But there aren't papers or tests periodically throughout the year. I am a bit scared for the finals and final papers at the end!

My favorite class so far is my Anatomy of an Auteur which, again, is centered around the work and technique of Hitchcock. It's been thoroughly interesting! My audited Neuropsychology class is a bit drier than I thought it'd be, but I'm sticking with it!

I'm also starting research next week which I am incredibly excited about! Dr. Large said that not only am I going to helping collect data but I get to serve as a participant. The study involves EKGs, so perhaps I'll be able to see my brain in action! haha

That's pretty much it for now!

~M