The Honors Forum is a 3-credit hour course required for graduation from the honors program. The topic, instructor, and meeting time change each semester to accommodate student schedules and interests. The class is discussion-based and students provide input into class activities. 

The course combines an emphasis on specific content and skill development in interaction, analysis, synthesis and conflict resolution. Students develop points of view concerning various issues and topics, articulate and defend those points of view, and challenge others as they make alternative judgments.

Fall 2012

Campaign 2012 – Rhetoric, Reasoning and Reckoning|

This Honors Forum class will focus on the 2012 presidential, state and local campaigns and elections. We will discuss the function and purpose of the electoral college and democracy as it is defined in the US. Students will select current issues to research and follow throughout the semester. They will analyze party platform and candidate positions related to these issues and evaluate rhetoric employed by the media (TV, radio, print, Internet) and candidates themselves regarding the topics. Class assignments will include listening to debates, following the progress of the campaign and other assigned readings and activities. Class discussions will cover issues researched by students and will include guest speakers and videos on political issues. Following the elections, the class will conduct a post-election analysis and present measured predictions about the course the nation in light of positions of newly elected officials. 

Spring 2013

Exploring Asia –Why We Should Care?

Using an interdisciplinary approach, this class will focus onAsia, with special emphasis on China and Korea. The class will include an overview of the culture and history of Asia, along with brief discussions of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. It  will also incorporate a unit covering Asian art and its influence. We will analyze how historical and philosophical aspects of Asian cultures affect their interactions with the world today.  In addition, we will investigate Asia’s economic transformation and worldwide economic impact. Classes will incorporate field trips, videos, guest speakers, and research that will inform class discussion and writing.