UA’s Interim Classes Explore Detection, Games, Forests, Weaving

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Professors at The University of Alabama are offering a number of thought-provoking, unusual and challenging classes during UA’s May Interim session from Monday, May 5 to Friday, May 23.

Classes range from the “Science and Anthropology of Detection” to “Introduction to Weaving.”

Here are some highlights:

The Science and Anthropology of Detection: This class looks at the history and logic of detection as well as crime-scene investigation, autopsies, DNA, fingerprinting, codes and lie detection. The class will include field trips and hands-on lab work in the study of human bones. Contact: Dr. Keith Jacobi, professor of anthropology, 205/348-0338, kjacobi@tenhoor.as.ua.edu.

The History of Games: Students in the class will learn about and actually play games, from the earliest that archaeologists have discovered from 4,000 years ago to contemporary board and video games. The class also will explore the values, structures and economic systems of the societies that produced them as well as the impact of board, card and video games on the modern world. Contact: Dr. Erik L. Peterson, assistant professor of history, 205/348-1854, elpeterson@ua.edu.

Wedding Planning: Students at UA will plan and execute a mock wedding. Students will learn about the decisions, problems and concerns of planning effective wedding events, and they will design, plan and execute a wedding from start to finish. The mock wedding is planned tentatively for Wednesday, May 21. Contact: Kimberly A. Boyle, assistant professor of restaurant, hotel and meetings management, 205/348-9148, kboyle@ches.ua.edu.

Introduction to Weaving: The beginning hand-weaving course teaches both loom-controlled and weaver-controlled weaving. The students begin with the basic loom controlled weaves of plan, twill, rib and basket as they explore the interaction of yarn color, diameter and surface effects in the weave. The class will venture outdoors to use natural dyes to color wool yarns. Contact: Virginia Wimberley, assistant professor and graduate director for clothing and textiles, vwimberl@ches.ua.edu.

Eastern Forest Communities: This course, featuring day and overnight trips, is focused on the biotic and abiotic elements that create distinct forest communities throughout the eastern United States. The class will explore the Bibb County Glades and the Talladega and Bankhead national forests, among others. Contact: Dr. Justin L. Hart, assistant professor of geography and the environmental science program, 205/348-1673, hart013@ua.edu