Intercultural Communication, Appalachian Literature Highlight Spring Humanities Offerings

For additional information, contact Nancy Nanney, chair of WVU Parkersburg’s Humanities Division, 304-424-8361.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

From the works of John Milton to culture’s impact on behavior and attitude, a variety of special interest topics is being offered by West Virginia University at Parkersburg’s Humanities Division for the spring semester.

WVU Parkersburg spring classes begin Jan. 14.

"ENGL 397 Special Topics: Topics in Appalachian Literature" will meet on Mondays from 4 to 6:45 p.m.  Stan Coberly will introduce students to the rich literary heritage of this region and connect them with talented authors past and present. Students will learn how the socio-cultural background of the region has affected literary output and, in turn, how writers impact understanding of the region.

A course for individuals who are not native speakers of English will be offered from 4 to 6:45 p.m. on Mondays. "ENGL 039: Special Problems in English As a Second Language" is designed to assist students in increasing their English-language fluency. Instructor Randy Oldaker will work individually with students to help them improve whichever language skills require special attention.

Patricia Gaston will provide students an opportunity to study the poetic works of one of the world’s major writers: John Milton. In "ENGL 397 Special Topics:  Milton," students will explore not only what this renowned writer created for the audience of his day but also the significance of Milton’s verse today. The class will meet from 7 to 9:45 p.m., Mondays.

Rebecca Phillips’ "ENGL 102: Composition 2" class, meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays, will have a unique focus. Students will investigate the issue of sustainable development, which centers upon the theory that present generations have a responsibility to the future and need to use resources in such a way that they continue to be available.

Beginning with the idea that many current consumption patterns cannot be continued long-term without both environmental and cultural disruption, the course encourages students to explore not only existing problems but also a variety of methods for solving them. Emphasis of the course will remain the writing of argumentation and research papers while the reading material will be specifically arranged to encompass sustainable development.

In "SPCH 316: Intercultural Communication," students will not only learn how culture shapes behavior and attitude, but also they will have an opportunity to study effective methods of communicating with people across cultures in the United States and abroad. The course is taught by Cathy Beaty and will meet on Wednesdays from 7 to 9:45 p.m.

Area residents looking for a humanities elective with multicultural content should find "THEA 250: Dramatic Literature" of interest. Taught by Nancy Nanney on Wednesdays from 7-9:45 p.m., the theatre class will focus on modern plays from around the world, including Africa, the Middle East, Latin American, Asia and Australia, as well as the United States and England. In addition to entering into dialogue with a diversity of cultures, students will participate in imaginative activities to complement their readings and discussions.

Registration for the spring semester reopens Jan. 2.  Information is available by calling the college after Jan. 1 at 424-8000.