Exploration Term 2012 Recap

Students take advantage of unique blend of learning opportunities

The January Exploration Term at Birmingham-Southern gave students an exciting change of pace: new projects on campus that addressed a variety of interests, chances to go global with faculty members, creative research, internships, or opportunities to do independently contracted study experiences across the state and nation—all for academic credit. More than 1,000 BSC students enrolled in the term. Projects, activities, and trips this year included: 

• A trip to the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, to examine the relationship between film festivals and independent cinema.
• A class, “Sticks, String, and Spindles: The Art of Knitting, Spinning Yarn, and Fiber Preparation,” which taught students the basics of the craft.
• A project serving in the Woodlawn and West End communities with local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and residents to learn about the history of the neighborhoods, understand current realities, and work alongside these groups.
• A trip to the national civil rights museum in Memphis.
• A class, “Criminal Law,” where students examined the U.S. Constitution and court system.
• A trip to Ghana, Africa, for a collaborative Bunting Center for Engaged Study and Community Action/education department service-learning initiative aimed at teaching English as a second language to schoolchildren.
• A class, “Children’s Opera,” where students put on a performance of Seymour Barab’s Little Red Riding Hood. The students also performed for students in local schools.
• A recreational activity that delivered home-cooked meals to students.
• A class, “Tough Choices: Ethical Dilemmas in Science and Medicine,” that delved into controversial issues that arise from advances in technology.
• A trip to the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador to study its wildlife, ecology, and conservation.

And so many more! You can read about some of their experiences on the Eterm blogs.

View our photo slideshow for a glimpse of this year’s E-term.

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Student Spotlight:

A senior moment

Here we profile two outstanding graduating seniors.

Campus Spotlight:

Honors Day 2012

BSC celebrated the academic achievements and leadership roles of students, faculty, and staff.