Honors Curriculum

Fall 2023

This course takes a “big history” approach to the problem of relating objective empirical science to subjective religious experience. While some advocate conflict or independence, others advocate dialogue or integration. All four perspectives are given their due considering pre-modern, modern, and post-modern approaches.

Dr. Garry Kenney, Faculty in English/Religious Studies

Fall 2023

Through engagement with media-rich resources, students interactively explore global examples of individuals or groups speaking out, taking a stand, and actively seeking solutions towards meaningful change. Self-reflection leads to empowerment through the cultivation of critical perspectives on issues and the successful presentation thereof within theoretical frameworks. In a safe environment with guided feedback, students learn to develop practical skills in effective oral and written articulation of their own voice. A community engagement project facilitates student collaboration with community in addressing social issues.

Dr. Ann Lebar, Faculty in History

Fall 2023

In this course, we will explore one of the fundamental “elements” of the ancient world – water. We will investigate its unique physical and chemical properties, interrogate the challenges of aquatic life, and explore local watersheds. Finally, we will tackle water availability challenges for human needs, both in the present and the future, considering the impacts of climate change and environmental justice issues.

Dr. Camille McNeely, Faculty in Biology

WINTER 2024

Gaining knowledge through digital interface – aka “Google-knowing” – is changing the way people form beliefs and evaluate claims about the world. One upside of this is the decentralization and democratization of communication, which grants a platform to the voices of dissent and of the oppressed. As Michael Patrick Lynch states, “Where we used to say that seeing is believing, now we might say ‘googling is believing.’” This critical thinking course will examine the dangers of trusting google- knowing as readily as our own perceptive and reflective faculties and it will teach the kinds of intellectual skills that aid in filtering out dubious claims from trustworthy ones.

Dr. Christopher Kirby, Faculty in Philosophy

Winter 2023

An examination of the history of African Americans from the end of the Reconstruction era to contemporary issues of today. Major attention will be given to the social political, and economic evolution of African Americans as a whole as well as the individual lives and work of famous black leaders and grassroots movements.

Kerwin Harmon, Faculty in Africana Studies

Spring 2024

The threats posed by climate change are not biophysical alone. They also have implications for cultural survival and the arts. The Spokane River named after the Spokane Tribe of Indians (sl’x l’axt) is a case in point. Ancient perspectives on the arts, shared in common by the river and the tribe, have much to teach about our corner of the warming world. Start your first year as an EWU Eagle by getting to know your local waterway firsthand!

Paul Lindholt, Faculty in English