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We now offer a new science-fiction course at KU called, Science, Technology, and Society: Examining the Future Through a Science-Fiction Lens. This University of Kansas course has been offered since 2006 and is available for English credit (ENGL 507) or Humanities credit (HWC 510). As with our summer SF Institute course, students may, for a donation to the Center, request in advance to take the course not-for-credit through the Center for the Study of Science Fiction on a space-available basis. Course Outline for Spring 2010This new course will meet for the entire Spring semester. KU faculty from several disciplines will lead the discussions, including Philip Baringer and Chris McKitterick. We will meet once again on Thursdays from 4:00pm – 6:40pm in Bailey Hall, Room 202. See this map of the University of Kansas to find your way to the classroom: http://www.ku.edu/~parking/ParkingMap.pdf Science and technology offer countless benefits to individuals and to societies, yet they also present new challenges. This course uses science fiction to explore the past, present, and possible future effects of science and technology on society. During the course, we discuss nonfiction articles, science-fiction stories, and sections of SF novels chosen to focus around a variety of themes, and occasionally view related film clips. Each class period is a mix of lecture and discussion, with two students leading each discussion. Discussants come to class with two or three questions on the day’s topic and readings, plus bring outside readings and observations to share with the class (preferably in advance). Each week, students write a one-page paper that examines that week's readings and includes questions to pose to the class as well as some points to stimulate discussion. Readings are mostly short works of fiction and non-fiction, though we also read a few longer works. Other projects include a mid-term paper and an oral presentation. Students enrolled for 3 credit hours also write a 10-15 page research paper as a final project. Additional readings: Here are some other links that provide more background for our topics:
For more details, see the syllabus. Syllabus for Spring 2010
Click here to view the syllabus. Click here to see last year's
promotional poster (.pdf file) CostsFor credit-seeking students, the cost is what the University charges for three credits tuition; for credit-earning non-residents, be aware that tuition is higher. Alternately, if there is room in the classroom space, you may request to take the course not-for-credit. To take this class through the Center for the Study of Science Fiction (not for credit), we request a donation of $250, payable to CSSF. If you are a not-for-credit student and require proof of completion of the course, we will provide a certificate upon request. Be sure to contact Chris McKitterick if you wish to enroll in this way; if you wish to enroll for University of Kansas credit, do so in the usual fashion. MapsUniversity of Kansas map: Kansas Union map: Lawrence map (a bus-route map, but very useful): The City of Lawrence, KansasFor anyone who hasn't visited, Lawrence is wonderful, a lively small city in the Kaw River valley, filled with art, events and activities. The location of the University of Kansas, Lawrence is situated about 40 miles from Kansas City and 20 miles from Topeka. Summers can be hot, but classrooms and housing are air-conditioned. Among its many amenities, the University of Kansas has a large science-fiction collection and good reference collections; museums of natural history and art; and sports, theater, and concerts. Lawrence has many excellent restaurants, shopping, and recreational opportunities. Kansas City is less than an hour away. Nighttime opportunities include movies, dinner, concerts, and more.
The nearest major airport is Kansas City International, about 55 miles from
Lawrence. Transportation to Lawrence from Kansas City International can be
arranged through one of several airport shuttle services. By car, Lawrence is at
the intersection of U.S. 59 and Contact us for any logistical help you
might need in getting settled for your stay: |
updated 11/2/2009