Spring 2005
Please consult the Spring 2005 Registration Supplement on the registrar's webpage for ExCo CRNs.
ExCo instructors registering for credit, use the Exco-xxxC-01 section on PRESTO.
The ExCos are split into the following large categories:
Language, Culture, and Religion
Arts, Crafts, and Do-It-Yourself
History 101: History of the American Indian Movement 0-1 Credit
Robert Roche and Zach Webber EXCO-106
This course, taught by the Director of the Cleveland American Indian Movement,
will introduce students to the history and present activities of the American Indian Movement
and facilitate opportunities to get involved.
Students who were enrolled in the Fall â04 AIM History ExCo 105
are encouraged to enroll in ExCo 106 as we will be covering different material in Spring â05.
Students who have not taken ExCo 105 should be in no way discouraged from applying for this semester.
No previous knowledge of American Indian History is required.
Big Parade0-1 Credit
Mindi Rock EXCO-108
This ExCo is big, big fun. In it, you get to make a big, big parade.
Materials include, but are not limited to: kids, bikes, paper machŽ, giant dragons,
dinosaurs, bands, barbeque, astrojumps, and excitement! It will culminate in a big,
big parade and fair on April 30th 2005 where we will show our efforts.
Bikes and Kids0-1 Credit
Deborah Brundy EXCO-110
Come learn bike repair, then use that knowledge to teach local youth. This combines
mentoring, hands on learning, and bike repair in the greatest course that could
ever be created.
Mini-Co-op Start-up Lab 0-1 Credit
Aliza Weidenbaum EXCO-115
Co-ops are groups of people systematically providing themselves with a product or service.
If you have always wanted something÷from cheap convenience food to foreign movie screenings
to compost services to ANYTHING÷this ExCo is for you. This playful, non-academic,
town-gown course will allow students to work together to design start-up mechanisms
and will provide deep guidance and support. Most work is done outside of class.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Tutoring 0-2 Credits
Susanna Duncan and Ileana Font-Soloway EXCO-120
This class will teach people how to teach English as a Second Language
to the local im/migrant community. You will spend most of the ExCo time teaching,
though we have several meetings to familiarize you with teaching techniques and resources,
and to share experiences and problem-solving techniques. We also hope to familiarize you
with and engage you in immigration issues.
Environmental Justice 0-2 Credits
Emma Blose EXCO-120
We will look critically at racism, classism, and gender in mainstream US environmental
movements, and discuss environmental justice activism led by people of color,
women, and poor and working-class people. Through readings, activities, discussion,
and a community-based research project, we will apply these issues to our own
lives and activism. No previous experience with environmental activism is necessary.
Grassroots Organizing 0-2 Credits
Dena Iverson and Megan Foster EXCO-125
The goal of this course is to train students to become active and effective
grassroots organizers through campaign work with OhioPIRG and class trainings.
The course structure is three-fold: theory, training, and practice. The theory
will explore philosophies through readings and discussions, which will be complemented
by trainings of grassroots activism skills. Finally, students will apply this
to hands-on practice as they develop and implement a critical component of a
campaign, such as coalition-building, media, grassroots, or research.
Low Income Housing and Social Justice 0-2 Credit
Isabel Call, Cara McKibbin and Anne LoweEXCO-140
Low-income housing is a particularly relevant social issue because
it is such an obvious indication of how some members of our society do
not measure up to the conventional American Dream. On a more local scale,
many low-income families cannot afford to live in Oberlin. Meanwhile, former
student housing is becoming available to them as Oberlin College brings more students
onto campus. We will address this current issue and others through projects based out
of the Oberlin Design Initiative, guest speakers and related readings.
Topics to be covered are: the history of low-income housing in the US;
non-profit and government involvement; the impact of housing trends such as
suburban flight, urban renewal, and urban sprawl on low-income households;
historical preservation; and green building.
Oberlin College Mentors 0-1 Credit
Anna Amelia Graber EXCO-145
Oberlin College Mentors is an opportunity to develop a long-term, mutually rewarding
relationship with a local child. This is a fun way to create ties to the city
of Oberlin and the community. Note: In committing to this ExCo, you are committing
to a child. Serious applicants only, please.
Principles of Community Service and Organizing in Oberlin 0-1 Credit
Allison CurseenEXCO-155
This course will prepare members of the Oberlin College community to be community
service leaders. The course will both introduce its students to the Oberlin and the
Lorain County area as well as prepare them to coordinate service opportunities for their peers.
The course is a prerequisite to leading an intramural service team.
Sexual Information Center: SExCo 0-2 Credits
Ariel Samach and Jenny Sandler EXCO-165
This course offers information about sexuality and sexual health issues, including
sexual practices, contraception, safer sex, anatomy, common sexual health problems,
STIs, pornography/erotica, birth, adoption, abortion, sex work/prostitution,
gender issues, and sexual orientation. Class meets once a week for 2 hours,
and an optional counseling skills session is offered for an additional 1 hour
a week. Students successful in both sessions may apply to be SIC counselors,
but you need not want to be a counselor to take the class.
Students for Students 0-2 Credits
Gabrielle Brown and Emily Ballard EXCO-170
Students for Students is a group whose primary goal is to create an enrichment
program which draws upon the strengths and talents of college students to create
a reciprocal learning relationship with local elementary students. We provide
fun and educational activities for children in grades K-5. The requirements
for this class are energy, dedication, and creativity.
US Labor History 0-1 Credit
Gil Kudrin EXCO-175
This course will cover the movement of organized labor in the US from the inception
of the Industrial Revolution to the present. It will explain the contributions
by various political and social tendencies, the strategies that led to organized
labor's greatest victories, and the frequent clash of interests inside the movement
itself that often led to defeats. The instructor has participated in part of
this history.
We'd Rather Teach Peace: Design and Practice 0-1 Credit
Alan Carroll and Melissa Hines EXCO-180
This course will provide opportunities for Oberlin College students and
community members to design and carry out peace education programs in the
Langston Middle School. College students and community members will work
together to teach the possibilities for non-violent resolution of community
and international conflicts. Members of the ExCo will be expected to attend
weekly evening classes to prepare materials, and then act as instructors for
about four classes during the Middle School day. There will be an optional
fee of up to $20 to pay for miscellaneous materials.
Issues in Women's Health 0-2 Credits
Eleanor Timreck EXCO-185
How do different groups of women and individuals interact with the health care
system, their bodies, and popular health culture? What can we do about it? Through
readings, discussion, and informal research projects, we will address the day
to day health concerns of ourselves and different women, and how these connect
to larger theoretical and political issues. Themes connecting the whole semester
include the ways class, race and sexuality change women’s health experiences
and options, and the importance of informed choice in every area of health.
Youth Energy Project 0-2 Credits
Avery Book EXCO-195
The goal of this course is to explore sustainability and social change through the
lens of energy in Oberlin, Ohio. The first half will be spent learning the fundamentals
of energy and its relationship to economic, environmental, social, and political issues,
as well as learning about the skills required to be a successful local activist.
The second half will be spent applying this knowledge through community-based projects
such as helping to teach a class at a local school, performing energy audits, or organizing
a City Council initiative or referendum about energy. Class will meet once a week for 3 hours,
have weekly reading assignments, and additional out-of-class time will be spent working on projects.
Language, Culture, and Religion
Sweet Home Alabama 0-1 Credit
Beau Mahurin EXCO-203
Peaches, Îpossums, and plantations come to mind? Thereâs more than you might imagine.
We shall be diving into the world of southern history, culture, heritage, and having a whole
lotta good oâ fun on the way. Yâall comeân visit, yâhear?
Brazil: Language and Culture Credit
Paul Park EXCO-205
Come learn the most beautiful language of the Americas. This course will be an introduction to Brazilian
Portuguese, taught by two Brazil enthusiasts. We will cover basic grammar with emphasis on conversation.
In addition, we will look at Brazilian culture and identity, including music, food, film and some dancing.
Letteratura italiana: Novelle 0-1 Credit
C. Maura Smith EXCO-230
Were you disappointed when you found out that there werenât any Italian classes beyond 102?
Come read and discuss short studies in Italian. Authors to be covered include (but arenât limited to)
Italo Calvino, Primo Levi, Luigi Pirandello, and many more. Pre-requisite: Italian 102 or consent of
instructor.
What is the Passion of the Christ Really About?; 0-2 Credits
Sammie Davis-Dyson EXCO-235
This course takes an expositional and exegetical-hermeneutic approach to a study of the Gospels and
the Old Testament prophecies relative to the Passion. The film will be viewed, and pertinent questions and
reactions will be the focus of the semester's lectures and discussions. Students will need an honest curiosity
and desire to learn about this most important topic from a fundamental Bible and Christian viewpoint. Students
will need a to bring a Bible.
Shamanism: An Experiential Exploration 0-1 Credit
Kathy Abromeit EXCO-245
This course will explore shamanism and its use of ancient techniques to achieve and maintain
well-being and healing for ourselves and our community. In addition to shamanic journeying, we will
explore art, ritual, and mindfulness meditations as gateways in understanding the profound connection with Self,
Nature, and Spirit. By the end of this class, we will have a better understanding of how this awareness
helps to develop and enhance our own individual Earth walk. Students need a drum or rattle for the course.
Course fee $25.
Storytelling Workshop 0-1 Credit
David Reese EXCO-255
This is an opportunity for students to refine and improve their storytelling
abilities. Through weekly assignments and comments from the group, we will identify
areas for improvement and effective techniques. We will explore wide variety
of styles and genres, from personal experience, to creation myths, to jokes.
Cryptozoology 0-1 Credit
Harrison Demchick EXCO-315
Do creatures, or cryptids, like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the
Abominable Snowman really exist? Cryptozoology, the study of hidden animals,
is devoted to studying these and other such mysteries. This class will allow
students to analyze the evidence with an open, yet critical, mind to draw their
own conclusions.
Dinosaurs and Other Sweet Dead Stuff 0-1 Credit
Josh Brewer and Meredith Corey EXCO-320
Explore the amazing world of dinosaurs and other extinct life forms, including marine
and flying reptiles. The course will consist of weekly lectures, discussion of current
developments in paleontology, movie viewings, student presentations and cookies.
Students are expected to complete a quiz, presentation, and short research paper.
Tracking 0-1 Credit
Matt McEttrick EXCO-345
This course will teach you the basics of tracking. Open up your senses,
get dirty, and learn to listen to what the earth is telling you.
Parallel Programming 0-1 Credit
Joe KimmelEXCO-350
This course will survey parallel programming techniques, focusing on those
appropriate for a small to mid-sized Beowulf cluster. Students will first construct
rudimentary working models, each utilizing a different paradigm to express parallelism,
and then will focus on a final more extended project of their own design, most likely working in teams.
Although most material covered will be in C++, knowledge of either C++ or Java will be sufficient
for this course. A basic comfort level will both a Unix/Linux environment and Object Oriented
Programming will be assumed. Specific topics to be covered include PVM, MPI, blackboards,
and neural networks.
UFO Exco 0-1 Credit
Aaron Clark EXCO-355
This course will explore incredible stories of UFOâs and extraterrestrial life.
Hear ancient stories of UFOâs, learn about the Roswell incident, Area 51, Alien Abductions,
Crop Circles, and more. See pictures and videos of reported UFO encounters that you will
see nowhere else. Weâll also cover government involvement with the UFO subject and how it has
affected our society.
Atomic Cinema: The Atomic Cafe 0-1 Credits
Amber Cohen EXCO-401
The Atomic Bomb is an image familiar to all of us, and has been a staple point
in film and culture since its inception fifty years ago. The plan of the class is to examine
(and enjoy!) the image of the bomb and its potential effects in myriad movies, to learn some
basic nuclear facts, and to consider societal reactions to the atomic bomb across time and space,
up to the here and now. Stop worrying about everything and learn to love the bomb.
Calvin and Hobbes ExCo 0-1 Credits
Aaron Parker EXCO-404
This discussion-based class will cover a number of topics related to Bill Wattersonâs
comic strip. Requirements are one two-page paper and one set of discussion questions.
Children's Fantasy 0-2 Credits
Abigail Moller EXCO-405
The rise in popularity fantasy in the past fifty years has been astronomical,
most recently culminating in the Harry Potter phenomenon. We will examine some
of the root causes of this shift through both well-known and obscure children's
fantasies. We will use a multi-disciplinary approach to look at the thesis of
the class: Fantasy as a Manifestation of Folk Culture. Reading intensive.
Cowboy Bebop: Beyond the Real Folk Blues 0-1 Credits
Andrew Bartholomew and Carly Trumann EXCO-407
This class presents a look at the anime series Cowboy Bebop and its influences.
Finally watch all the episodes! Learn more about all the crazy details and references
you didnât notice last time! Ponder the psyches of the characters! Listen to awesome music!
Dirty Projections: Rock nâ Roll on Film 0-1 Credits
Farah Ali and Max Willens EXCO-411
This course will introduce students to various documentaries and films about some of the
most important and influential musicians and bands in rock history. These films range
in scope from the Talk Headsâ concert documentary ãStop Making Senseä and the musical
extravaganza ãRock nâ Roll High Schoolä featuring the Ramones, to music video compilations
by Sonic Youth and Devo. There will be a weekly screening accompanied by appropriate handouts
and biweekly discussion sessions about artists and their music and artists as objects of
documentation ö that is, artists as subjects of art and of homage.
The Espionage ExCo 0-2 Credits
Harlo Holmes EXCO-413
This course brings the world of espionage to life on the Oberlin campus! Through rigorous training,
fieldwork, and a good amount of logic learn what it takes to become a secret agent. Harlo and Eli
will take you through the World Wars, the Cold war, the Nixon administration, and up to the present
day through combining history, film, and hands-on experience. Your mission, by which we mean exam,
will be to participate in a no-holds-bared game of assassin to prove who has what it takes.
There will be a $25 course fee, which will be put towards various purchases at Radio Shack.
The Everlasting Fairy Tale 0-1 Credit
Katy Hedges-Goettl and Chloe Liotta-Jones EXCO-415
Do you believe that fairy tales are more complicated than they are given credit
for? This course will explore fairy tales as an adult genre and how they resound
with us even when they are from other cultures. Through discussion, "The
Arabian Nights", and Japanese fairytales, the class will explore what is
really so enchanting and everlasting about this genre.
Intensive Filmmaking 0-2 Credits
Adam Tate EXCO-425
The Intensive Filmmaking ExCo is a beginning level film production workshop.
The course will include introductions to all levels of production: writing, acting, shooting,
directing, and editing. Participants will learn to operate Krasnagorsk 16 mm film cameras
and Super-8 cameras. Working in crews of four, each crew will complete three short black and
white films on 16 mm reversal and one short color film on Super-8. Students will also learn
how to splice film and edit on a Steinbeck
Visions and Revisions: Jewish Women in Contemporary and Creative Writing 0-2 Credit
Chanel Dubofsky EXCO-435
Jewish womenâs voices are provocative, evocative, and ripe with the insight of generations.
In this ExCo, we will explore these voices through poetry, fiction, biblical text, contemporary
commentary and essays, in addition to exploring our own identities through creative writing based
on themes in the works. We will focus on topics such as sexuality, mothers and daughters, biblical
women, food, body image, and the media.
Murky Waters 0-1 Credit
Robynn Europe EXCO-440
Drugs, queers, abortion, religion ö nothing is sacred in John Watersâ field of vision.
When asked about them, he says, ãsecretly, I think that all my films are politically correct,
though they appear not to be. Thatâs because theyâre made with a sense of joy.ä This class has
three mandatory writing assignments.
New Zealand Film 0-1 Credit
Daniel Cole EXCO-445
This course will present to students films from different genre of New Zealand Film.
Some will show early work of Peter Jackson, some deal with New Zealand history and politics,
and others cannot be grouped. Presented as a group, these films serve to present a window so that
students may understand New Zealand culture and film better.
The Bus: A Phishtory 0-1 Credit
Daniel Grodnitsky EXCO-455
A course designed to display the manner in which life on the road is conducive to spiritual
enlightenment, based upon the novel, ãThe Bussä by Rob Goll in which he relates his experiences
on the Fall â98 Phish tour. All spiritual seekers, Deadheads, and Phisheads encouraged to join in.
Purchase of ãThe Busä required (cost: $8).
Star Trek: The ExCo 0-1 Credit
Michael Fruhwald EXCO-465
This course will explore Star Trekâs take on a wide variety of themes, including exploration,
freedom, humanity, individuality, prejudice, reality, religion, and war. We will focus primarily on
The Original Series, The Next Generation, and Deep Space Nine. Each week there will be lectures,
episode viewings, and discussion. You do not have to be a Trekkie to enjoy this course; no prior
experience with Star Trek is expected.
Transcendentalism 0-1 Credit
Steve Bagley EXCO-485
Focusing on Thoreauâs writings, the question we seek to answer this semester is: to what degree can
his teachings apply to Today? Students will read roughly one essay weekly, with a little writing-discussion,
which, in this case, is key to understanding the texts!
Oberlin Belly Dance Collective ExCo 0-1 Credit
Megan Richards, Naomi Altman, and Allison Hourcade EXCO-505
This is not a course on choreography as it would be presented in a more traditional
study dance setting, but rather a course, which is very much concerned with the life force of
the dance and the building of a safe community of expression. This course incorporates individuals
of all skill-levels, body types and genders in a spirit of self-expression. Participants will become
acquainted with a variety of moves in a jam and group instructional setting, work with musical rhythms
of the dances, explore its historical context, and above all else, fall in love with the form!
Israeli Dance 0-1 Credit
Stuart Meyer and Samantha Yarbrough EXCO-525
Introduction to footwork and rhythms of Israeli dance styles, including
Yemenite, Greek, Arabic, modern Israeli, and classic pioneer Israeli dances.
Poi: The Art of Twirling 0-1 Credit
Ray Schamp and Eric Brook EXCO-560
Youâve seen it with glowsticks at the ÎSco, youâve seen it with flags at TGIF, and youâve seen
it with fire at parties - now itâs your turn to learn the majestic art of swinging balls. Students of
all skill levels will learn a wide array of moves using several styles of swinging (traditional/sock poi,
flags, glowsticks, and meteors). A midterm consisting of a short improvisational performance and a final
routine with a circus are requirements to receive credit for the course. Students who do not already own
poi may pay a $5 course fee or may be taught to build poi themselves.
Salsa Dancing 0-1 Credit
Chris Jordan EXCO-562
This class is oriented for anyone interested in improving dance technique with timing, rhythm, and musicality.
Learn the difference between beats, critical timing, advanced lead and follow technique, and styling for
different types of salsa music. Learn to recognize and dance different rhythms of Latin Music. This is a
class that covers advanced topics, a must for anyone from beginners to advanced.
Beginning Modern American Swing 0-1 Credit
Kira McGirr, Amie Patchen, Sacha Rattle and Lincoln Smith EXCO-570
This course will teach students the basic steps of East Coast swing (6-count)
and Lindy Hop (8-count), including some Charleston and jazz dance. The focus
will be on refining fundamentals, having fun, and learning to put swing dance
into its historical and social context.
Brit Pop! 0-1 Credit
Wyna Liu EXCO-603
This course is an overview of the movement known as Britpop (early to late 90s). Each week we will
explore different topics related to the genre as defined by different bands.
Oberlin Chamber Players 0-1 Credit
Joseph Kneer EXCO-605
This course will provide experienced musicians with the opportunity to prepare
and perform standard chamber orchestra repertoire. The music will be thoroughly
studied and rehearsed in sectionals as well as in a full orchestra setting, and
there will be a final performance. Emphasis will be on building enthusiasm for
ensemble playing. The course is aimed at first- and second-year Conservatory performance
majors, but is open to others through audition.
Classical Music of North India 0-2 Credits
Hasu Patel and Miranda Siegel EXCO-615
The course is offered by a professional musician to give students an introduction
to the theory and practice of the classical instruments of Hindustani music:
Sitar, Tabla, and Vocal. Students will learn about Raga Sangeet and the context
surrounding this sacred music. The course will be taught in traditional style
with certain rules regarding the instruments, practice, fellow students, and
Guru. Instruments are available for use through the teacher and the Conservatory.
Learn to be a REAL Hip-Hop DJ!! 0-1 Credit
Dan Borden EXCO-625
Learn to be a REAL hip hop DJ! This course will cover a wide spectrum of hip hop DJ topics.
We will cover Scratching, Mixing, DJ history, music production, set construction, DJ equipment,
and more. Class fee of $25 will go to purchasing practice equipment for the class. Through assignments
and a final DJ battle, one lucky student will be able to win back the equipment worth $400! Take this
intensive course to start you on your way to becoming a well-rounded hip hop DJ. Donât like hip hop?
Donât worry, the skills learned here can be applied to ANY form of music. Impress your friends and family!
Beginners ONLY.
Oberlin College Marching Band 0-2 Credits
Lisa Berman and Margaret Putney EXCO-645
We need musicians, color guard members, drum majors, choreographers and drill
designers! If you are interested in practicing or acquiring skills in any of
these areas, please join us. All ranges of experience welcome.
Blow Out: The Radiohead ExCo 0-1 Credit
Grant Huling EXCO-655
In this course we will listen to and discuss all of Radiohead's catalogue. With
attention toward such themes as political vision, abstract artwork, and Thom
Yorke's evolving lyrical approach, we will interpret their often cryptic songs.
Both hardcore fans and the uninitiated are welcome.
Rhythm-a-ning on World Percussion 0-1 Credit
Ben Malament EXCO-665
Students will gain an understanding of techniques and backgrounds surrounding
instruments and music from Africa, Peru, Brazil, and North America. The evolution
and connection of the music throughout all of these places will be examined
rhythmically.
Steel Drum Ensemble 0-1 Credit
Carolyn Mraz and Michael Geraci EXCO-685
An introduction to the techniques and traditions of steel drum performance.
Students will also learn to play other percussion instruments. The class culminates
in a group performance at the Cat in the Cream.
Arts, Crafts, and Do-It-Yourself
Hmm· Art 0-1 Credit
Annie Amanda Pope and Petrina Willig EXCO-705
Ever been turned away from an Oberlin art class? Frustrated that there is no open studio space
on campus for non-art majors? This course will give you the space, time and guidance youâve been
looking for. Group and individual projects such as beading, collage, sculpture, tie-dye and just
about anything else you can think of.
Basic Bicycle Mechanics 0-1 Credit
Tom Anderson- Monterosso EXCO-715
Learn to know, love, maintain, and rebuild your bike. We will teach you how
to identify the parts of your bike, basic maintenance skills, names and functions
of all the tools in the Bike Co-op, and all the basic bike systems. Students
will also be required to join a shift at the Bike Co-op (3 hours once a week).
No bike knowledge required, only enthusiasm for bikes and learning.
Collage- Co 0-1 Credit
Julia Vogl EXCO-720
Collage-Co! Come experience the history, the artists, the technique and the challenge of the
art of collage! In 12 classes, 6 genres, looking at 20 or more artists, with a slide show
presentation, games and museum visits, you will learn all the approaches and forms of the medium.
Learning from those who have come before, the contemporaries, and the class you will become an
expert of the art, and will want to collage everything you own!
Defense Against the Dark Arts 0-2 Credit
Laura Zimmerman and Molly Mitchell EXCO-725
Defense against the Dark Arts will be a combination of a 1-credit academic course in which
we will examine and discuss many historical approaches to magical and psychic defense and a
1-credit practicum in which we will practice these defensive techniques.
Doodling: Filling the Margins 0-1 Credit
Elizabeth Arnold EXCO-730
This course is meant to fill the gap between the artistic skill of the average person
and the artistic skill expected for entry into an introductory college level art class.
This will be a drawing class, focusing on improving the enjoyment of and skill used in
creating the most common form: the doodle. Students will need to purchase their own materials,
including but not limited to pen, pencil, and paper.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Finance and Accounting 0-1 Credit
Mark Bates EXCO-740
Our goal is to fill in the understanding gaps between what you learned in Economics and
what you'd like to learn and need to know in the realm of finance. By the end of this course,
you will have gained a high-level understanding of the world of Finance and Accounting.
Self-Paced Hand Knitting 0-1 Credit
Jen Potter EXCO-746
What do you want to learn? This course is for the knitter who wishes to learn new techniques
and to discuss their craft. Participants will plan and work on a project at their own pace.
Demonstrations on technique will be based on the needs of the participants. All that is
required is the ability to create the knit stitch and the desire to learn new skills.
Participants are responsible for providing their own materials.
Picture Books 0-2 Credit
Emily Booth EXCO-755
Reread your old favorite picture books, discover newer picture books, and make your own.
Everyone is welcome, and creating can be as collaborative as you want it to be. The focus
will be on kidsâ books, but non-kid picture books will also be perused. Be prepared to share
our crayons, scissors, watercolors, paper, etc.
Tactical Media and Guerilla Communication 0-1 Credit
Tyler Norman and Arthur Richards EXCO-765
A course covering a broad range of topics and methods of tactical media. The core of the
course will be instruction and hands-on experimentation with do-it-yourself media techniques,
including banner drops, puppet theater and low-budget silk screening. As a supplement, there
will be discussions and lectures ranging from the history of graffiti in New York City to the
Situationists' theories of The Spectacle.
Wanna Dye? 0-1 Credit
Oona OâLeary and Emily Riggs EXCO-775
Wanna Dye? Get your hands dirty and have fun experimenting with various dye techniques.
For those who want to move past their 7th grade tye-dying experience. Neophytes and
veterans welcome. There will be a fee for materials.
Aikido 0-1 Credit
Richard Aszling and Joshua Bisker EXCO-805
The Aikido ExCo is an introduction to the basic principles and techniques of
Aikido, a Japanese martial art that employs circular motion and blending in
order to control and subdue an opponent without necessarily causing injury.
Aikido is built around concepts of openness, relaxation, and being able to respond
to any attack. As Aikido is not dependent on strength, it is suitable for all
ages and physiques.
Introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 0-1 Credit
Andrew Zilm EXCO-815
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling martial art in which practitioners use chokes
and joint locks to subdue their opponents. This class will introduce the basic
positions, principles, and techniques.
Contact Improvisation 0-1 Credit
Come learn and play the art/dance/sport of Contact Improvisation in a safe and open
atmosphere! Share weight as you move through space and levels, using one another as
dance surfaces. Study through dancing concepts of movement and social proximity to
other people. No dance background required. Come exactly as you are, we are open to all.
Body work included. Fun included. Energy, smiles and spirals included too!
Beginning Fencing 0-1 Credit
Daniel Herr and Krishni Burns EXCO-825
Come learn the beautiful and sexy art of fencing! We will be teaching beginning foil,
so no experience is required. Next time you need to defend your honor, you'll be ready.
Beginning Karate 0-1 Credit
David Jackson EXCO-835
Training for mind, body, and soul, this class is open to beginners as well as
those with martial arts experience. Taking the class makes one eligible to join
the Oberlin Karate Kai. There is no class size limit, so everyone who is interested
will get in.
Oberlin Skilled Hands in Training (OSHIT) 0-1 Credit
Case Conover EXCO-845
Clown around for credit! Want to learn to juggle balls and pins÷or even fire and knives?
Want to unicycle, walk on big balls, balance things on your face and do mime and magic?
Or do you want to improve circus skills that you already have? If so, this is exco for you!
Youâll make your own juggling balls, learn the tricks you need to run away and join the circus,
and youâll even put on a public circus performance yourself! OSHIT!
Pilates for Beginners 0-1 Credit
Jinny Choi and Rebecca Kenna- Schenk EXCO-847
This course will introduce students to basic Pilates movements and poses. Classes will
focus on strengthening and toning as well as stretching and relaxation. No experience
necessary. Students will need to purchase a Pilates mat and resistance band (approx. $20).
Introduction to Bartenders' Juggling 0-1 Credit
Basil Simon EXCO-852
this course teaches the basics of "flair", the bartender's art of juggling bottles.
Students will learn the basic grips and catches for 1, 2, and 3 bottle tricks.
Some juggling experience is recommended, but not required. Students must purchase
3 plastic bottles, weighted to mimic glass at $20 each.
Rubik's Cube for Dummies 0-1 Credit
Zachary Tesler EXCO-855
Learn to master the most popular puzzle in the word! This course covers some
of the most common methods for solving the Rubik's Cube, as well as speedcubing,
history, and approaches to other puzzles. No experience is necessary, and no
math is involved. Students are encouraged to provide their own cube.
The Art of the Sphere 0-1 Credit
Andrew Broddus EXCO-857
Contact juggling is a hypnotizingly fluid manipulation art to impress family,
friends, and foes alike. Learn the basics of this movement art and add a powerful
weapon to your entertainment arsenal. Students will come away with enough knowledge
to independently refine their own technique even after the course, should they choose.
Small scale choreographed performances, with the rest of the class as audience.
Tae Kwon Do 0-1 Credit
Peter Collopy EXCO-860
This is an introduction to the Korean martial art of Tae Kwon Do, beginning
with basic techniques, including stances, strikes, blocks, and kicks. There
will also be one-step and light-contact sparring, forms, some basic Judo, and
simple English and Korean terminology. Class will meet twice a week for 1.5
hours. There will be an optional test for the rank of yellow belt at the end
of the course. The class is primarily for beginners, but those with previous
training are welcome to join.
Tai Chi 101 0-1 Credit
Carl Schreep and Jacob Karlins EXCO-862
This class is an introduction to tâai chi châuan, a Taoist martial art famous
for its health benefits and a means of spiritual cultivation.
Water Polo 0-1 Credit
Gabriel Golden EXCO-865
We will learn all the basics of Water Polo, focusing on treading, ball skills,
and some swim conditioning. All levels are welcome. We will be practicing with
the Water Polo Club and drawing from their collective knowledge and resources.
There will be at least three women’s intercollegiate tournaments and two
co-ed tournaments. Practice will be 2-3 afternoons a week.
Vinyasa Yoga 2 0-1 Credit
Lance Westendarp EXCO-876
This is the second semester continuation of first semester yoga. We will
continue our work on pranagama, iyengar postures and begin work on vinyasa yoga.
At least four months of prior yoga experience is a pre-requisite unless you took
the first semester class.